Dynamics of an open quantum Otto engine with a working substance in a harmonic oscillator potential well

Abstract

This study investigates the performance of an open system quantum Otto heat engine, whose working medium consists of particles confined in a harmonic oscillator potential. The expansion and compression of this system is controlled by the frequency of the oscillator. Thermal energy is transferred from the heat baths connected to the isochoric branches. The dynamical trajectories were plotted for each thermodynamic step and the work done by the engine was calculated. From the ratio of the useful work and input heat, we obtain the efficiency when the working substance consists of either bosons or fermions. Here bosons are found to be more efficient as they allow multiple occupancy of states.