Carnot cycle for an oscillator

Authors: Arnaud J.1; Chusseau L.2; Philippe F.3

Source: European Journal of Physics, Volume 23, Number 5, 2002 , pp. 489-500(12)

Publisher: Institute of Physics Publishing

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Abstract:

In 1824 Carnot established that the efficiency of cyclic engines operating between a hot bath at absolute temperature Thot and a bath at a lower temperature Tcold cannot exceed 1 - Tcold/Thot. We show that linear oscillators alternately in contact with hot and cold baths obey this principle in the quantum as well as classical regime. The expression of the work performed is derived from a simple prescription. Reversible and non-reversible cycles are illustrated. The paper begins with historical considerations and is essentially self-contained.

Language: English

Document Type: Miscellaneous

Affiliations: 1: Mas Liron, F30440 Saint Martial, France 2: Centre d'Électronique et de Micro-optoélectronique de Montpellier, Unité Mixte de Recherche no 5507 au CNRS, Université Montpellier II, F34095 Montpellier France 3: Département de Mathématiques et Informatique Appliquées, Université Paul Valéry, F34199 Montpellier France

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