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arXiv · 2307.06679

Stochastic thermodynamics of a quantum dot coupled to a finite-size reservoir

Saulo V. Moreira·Peter Samuelsson·Patrick P. Potts
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Abstract

In nano-scale systems coupled to finite-size reservoirs, the reservoir temperature may fluctuate due to heat exchange between the system and the reservoirs. To date, a stochastic thermodynamic analysis of heat, work and entropy production in such systems is however missing. Here we fill this gap by analyzing a single-level quantum dot tunnel coupled to a finite-size electronic reservoir. The system dynamics is described by a Markovian master equation, depending on the fluctuating temperature of the reservoir. Based on a fluctuation theorem, we identify the appropriate entropy production that results in a thermodynamically consistent statistical description. We illustrate our results by analyzing the work production for a finite-size reservoir Szilard engine.

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BibTeXRIS

Saulo V. Moreira, Peter Samuelsson, Patrick P. Potts. 2023-07-13. Stochastic thermodynamics of a quantum dot coupled to a finite-size reservoir. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.131.220405

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