We show that coupled two-level systems like qubits studied in quantum-information processing can be used as a thermodynamic machine. At least three qubits or spins are necessary and they must be arranged in a chain. The system is interfaced between two split baths and the working spin in the middle is externally driven. The machine performs Carnot-type cycles and is able to work as a heat pump or engine depending on the temperature difference of the baths, DeltaT , and the energy difference in the spin system, DeltaE . It can be shown that the efficiency is a function of DeltaT and DeltaE .
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http://dx.doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.75.051118 | DOI Listing |
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