Quantum Trajectory Approach to the Stochastic Thermodynamics of a Forced Harmonic Oscillator

Abstract

I formulate a quantum stochastic thermodynamics for the quantum trajectories of a continuously-monitored forced harmonic oscillator coupled to a thermal reservoir. Consistent trajectory-dependent definitions are introduced for work, heat, and entropy, through engineering the thermal reservoir from a sequence of two-level systems. Within this formalism the connection between irreversibility and entropy production is analyzed and confirmed by proving a detailed fluctuation theorem for quantum trajectories. Finally, possible experimental verifications are discussed.Comment: 16 pages, 3 figures, submitted to PRE; expanded introduction and conclusion, corrected typos, new figure