Fluctuation theorems for autonomous work

Abstract

Classical fluctuation theorems for work have been obtained theoretically, and verified experimentally, within a non-autonomous framework in which work is performed on a system of interest, ${\cal S}$, by the external manipulation of a work parameter, such as a piston's position. Here we obtain fluctuation theorems within an autonomous framework in which ${\cal S}$ exchanges energy with a reversible work source, ${\cal R}$. The two subsystems, ${\cal R}$ and ${\cal S}$, interact with one another as they evolve under Hamiltonian or stochastic dynamics, without external intervention. In this setting, we must account for the back-action of ${\cal S}$ on ${\cal R}$, which is absent in the non-autonomous setting. We obtain autonomous versions of standard fluctuation theorems for work and entropy production. In each case, we argue, the autonomous fluctuation theorem reduces to its non-autonomous counterpart when ${\cal R}$'s inertia becomes infinitely large.