arXiv · 2511.14552
Experimental observation and application of the genuine Quantum Mpemba Effect
Abstract
Coherence is an inherently quantum property that deeply affects microscopic processes, including thermalization phenomena. A striking example is the quantum Mpemba effect (QME), in which a system can exhibit anomalous relaxation, thermalizing faster from a state initially farther from equilibrium than from one closer. Here, we experimentally investigate the genuine QME and observe how the dynamics of a spin-1/2 system interacting with a heat sink can be sped-up to equilibrium. The mechanism underlying this speed-up is uncovered through detailed analysis of the heat exchange process. Furthermore, we apply the QME in a quantum Otto refrigerator, thereby increasing its cooling power. This proof-of-concept experiment unveils new practical paths for improving quantum thermal tasks.
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Bruno P. Schnepper, Jefferson L. D. de Oliveira, Yan A. C. Avó, Carlos H. S. Vieira, Krissia Zawadzki, Roberto M. Serra. 2025-11-18. Experimental observation and application of the genuine Quantum Mpemba Effect. https://arxiv.org/abs/2511.14552
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