Quantum light engine links atom-photon thermodynamics to classical physics
What is heat, and what is useful work if a machine consists only of an atom and light particles?
What is heat, and what is useful work if a machine consists only of an atom and light particles?
The short version
- In modern quantum technologies, this kind of question connects thermodynamics with quantum physics.
- Researchers at the University of Basel, Switzerland, have developed a theoretical approach that can reconcile both theories.
- This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies .
What happened
Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: What is heat, and what is useful work if a machine consists only of an atom and light particles? Recently, Potts and his collaborators showed that the light particles escaping from the cavity must not generally be regarded as "waste heat" in the thermodynamic treatment.
Why it matters
Rather, part of their energy can still be used to perform useful work on another quantum system.
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