Physics Colloquium, Dr. Gavin Crooks (LBL)

Optimal control of microscopic non-equilibrium thermodynamic systems:

The control of energy and entropy is the domain of thermodynamics. Historically this beautiful and insightful theory only captured glacial flows of energy and gradual changes in entropy. However, our understanding of fast, dramatically non-equilibrium processes�� been revolutionized in the last two decades, beginning with the discovery of the Fluctuation Theorems and the Jarzynski Equality. These new theoretical insights were soon confirmed by new experimental techniques that allowed direct measurement of energy flow at microscopic scales.

I will describe the basic theoretical insights underlying finite-time non-equilibrium thermodynamics. I'll then describe recent advances in understanding how to optimally control driven thermodynamic systems, using the Ising model as a particular example.

Event Sponsor
Physics and Astronomy, Mānoa Campus

More Information
(808) 956-7690

Tweet