An attempt at quantum thermal physics

• DOI: 10.1007/s10973-005-0950-9
• Publication Date: 2006-01-10T17:25:17Z
• Authors: J. J. Mareš; J. Šesták
• Keywords: Carnot cycle; Inscribed figure; Caloric theory; Exposition (narrative); Zero-point energy

This paper outlines an alternative exposition of the structure of quantum thermodynamics which is essentially based on Carnot’s theory where fluxes of caloric are identified with negative information fluxes. It is further assumed that the thermal energy evolved by thermal processes is identical with the electromagnetic zero-point background energy evolved by the destruction of information inscribed in a structural unit (qubit). Theoretical arguments on an elementary level are accompanied by illustrative examples.