Quantum Steampunk: Quantum Information, Thermodynamics, Their Intersection, and Applications Thereof Across Physics

Author: Yunger Halpern, Nicole

Year: 2018

Degree: Dissertation (Ph.D.)

Advisor: Preskill, John P.

Committee Members: Preskill, John P.; Brandao, Fernando; Chen, Xie; Endres, Manuel A.

Option: Physics

DOI: 10.7907/96EJ-N815

Abstract

Combining quantum information theory (QIT) with thermodynamics unites 21st-century technology with 19th-century principles. The union elucidates the spread of information, the flow of time, and the leveraging of energy. This thesis contributes to the theory of quantum thermodynamics, particularly to QIT thermodynamics. The thesis also contains applications of the theory, wielded as a toolkit, across physics. Fields touched on include atomic, molecular, and optical physics; nonequilibrium statistical mechanics; condensed matter; high-energy physics; and chemistry. I propose the name quantum steampunk for this program. The term derives from the steampunk genre of literature, art, and cinema that juxtaposes futuristic technologies with 19th-century settings.

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