Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Log inSign up
Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Blog
Job Board
Q3AS

© 2026 Aqora Quantum S.A.S.

TermsPrivacyLegal Notice

Physical Review

Method of Transition Probabilities in Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Statistics

P. T. Landsberg

Published Dec 1, 1954• 11 citations
Publisher

Abstract

The concepts microscopic reversibility, detailed balancing, equal probabilities, equilibrium, $H$ theorem are often used in (coarse grained) quantum statistics. It is pointed out that each has a (fine grained) quantum-mechanical counterpart. These concepts are formulated, and their interrelations discussed, at an abstract mathematical level. The results are then interpreted by taking first the fine grained and then the coarse grained point of view. A type of transition matrix arises which does not seem to have been investigated so far, and some of its properties are discussed.

DOI
10.1103/physrev.96.1420

Related papers

Non-Markovian Model for the Approach to Equilibrium

Gérard G. Emch

This paper is intended to provide the axiomatic study of nonequilibrium quantum statistical mechanics with some simple and rigorously solvable models. The models considered here are obtained as generalizations of the Ising model. They illustrate and allow a rational discussion of the following concepts relevant to the theory of irreversible phenomena: coarse-graining and time-smoothing, ergodicity, recurrences, impossibility of a Markovian description of the approach to equilibrium for some physical systems, justification of the various random phase assumptions, properties of the interaction responsible for the approach to equilibrium, master equations, etc.

Journal of Mathematical Physics•Jul 1, 1966•44 citations

Quantum Statistical Mechanics. III. Equilibrium Probability

Phil Attard

Given are a first principles derivation and formulation of the probabilistic concepts that underly equilibrium quantum statistical mechanics. The transition to non-equilibrium probability is traversed briefly.

arXiv:1404.2683•Apr 10, 2014•0 citations

Quantum Stochastic Thermodynamics

Philipp Strasberg

Abstract Processes at the nanoscale happen far away from the thermodynamic limit, far from equilibrium and are dominated by fluctuations and, perhaps, even quantum effects. This book establishes a consistent thermodynamic framework for such processes by combining tools from non-equilibrium statistical mechanics and the theory of open quantum systems. The book is accessible for graduate students and of interest to all researchers striving for a deeper understanding of the laws of thermodynamics beyond their traditional realm of applicability. It puts most emphasis on the microscopic derivation and understanding of key principles and concepts as well as their interrelation. The topics covered in this book include (quantum) stochastic processes, (quantum) master equations, local detailed balance, classical stochastic thermodynamics, (quantum) fluctuation theorems, strong coupling and non non-Markovian effects, thermodynamic uncertainty relations, operational approaches, Maxwell's demon and time-reversal symmetry, among other topics. Furthermore, the book treats a few applications in detail to illustrate the general theory and its potential for practical applications. These are single-molecule pulling experiments, quantum transport and thermoelectric effects in quantum dots, the micromaser and related set-ups in quantum optics.

•Jan 28, 2022•63 citations

Nonequilibrium quantum statistical mechanics and thermodynamics

Walid K. Abou Salem

The purpose of this work is to discuss recent progress in deriving the fundamental laws of thermodynamics (0th, 1st and 2nd-law) from nonequilibrium quantum statistical mechanics. Basic thermodynamic notions are clarified and different reversible and irreversible thermodynamic processes are studied from the point of view of quantum statistical mechanics. Special emphasis is put on new adiabatic theorems for steady states close to and far from equilibrium, and on investigating cyclic thermodynamic processes using an extension of Floquet theory.

arXiv:math-ph/0601047•Jan 23, 2006•0 citations

On probabilities in quantum mechanics

Inge Svein Helland

This is an attempt to clarify certain concepts related to a debate on the interpretation of quantum mechanics, a debate between Khrennikov on the one hand and Stacey and Schack on the other hand. Central to this debate is the notion of quantum probabilities. I first take up the probability concept in the QBist school, as seen from my point of view, and then give my own arguments for the Born formula for calculating quantum probabilities. In that connection, I also sketch some consequences of my approach toward the foundation and interpretation of quantum theory. I discuss my general views on QBism as a possible alternative interpretation of quantum mechanics before I give some final remarks.

APL Quantum•Aug 21, 2024•8 citations

On the Brussels School's Arrow of Time in Quantum Theory

Vassilios Karakostas

This paper examines the problem of founding irreversibility on reversible equations of motion from the point of view of the Brussels school's recent developments in the foundations of quantum statistical mechanics. A detailed critique of both their ‘subdynamics’ and ‘transformation’ theory is given. It is argued that the subdynamics approach involves a generalized form of ‘coarse-graining’ description, whereas, transformation theory cannot lead to truly irreversible processes pointing to a preferred direction of time. It is concluded that the Brussels school's conception of microscopic temporal irreversibility, as such, is tacitly assumed at the macroscopic level. Finally a logical argument is provided which shows, independently of the mathematical formalism of the theory concerned, that statistical reasoning alone is not sufficient to explain the arrow of time.

Philosophy of Science•Sep 1, 1996•11 citations
The concepts microscopic reversibility, detailed balancing, equal probabilities, equilibrium, HHH theorem are often used in (coarse grained) quantum statistics. It is pointed out that each has a (fine grained) quantum-mechanical counterpart. These concepts are formulated, and their interrelations discussed, at an abstract mathematical level. The results are then interpreted by taking first the fine grained and then the coarse grained point of view. A type of transition matrix arises which does not seem to have been investigated so far, and some of its properties are discussed.
This paper is intended to provide the axiomatic study of nonequilibrium quantum statistical mechanics with some simple and rigorously solvable models. The models considered here are obtained as generalizations of the Ising model. They illustrate and allow a rational discussion of the following concepts relevant to the theory of irreversible phenomena: coarse-graining and time-smoothing, ergodicity, recurrences, impossibility of a Markovian description of the approach to equilibrium for some physical systems, justification of the various random phase assumptions, properties of the interaction responsible for the approach to equilibrium, master equations, etc.
Abstract Processes at the nanoscale happen far away from the thermodynamic limit, far from equilibrium and are dominated by fluctuations and, perhaps, even quantum effects. This book establishes a consistent thermodynamic framework for such processes by combining tools from non-equilibrium statistical mechanics and the theory of open quantum systems. The book is accessible for graduate students and of interest to all researchers striving for a deeper understanding of the laws of thermodynamics beyond their traditional realm of applicability. It puts most emphasis on the microscopic derivation and understanding of key principles and concepts as well as their interrelation. The topics covered in this book include (quantum) stochastic processes, (quantum) master equations, local detailed balance, classical stochastic thermodynamics, (quantum) fluctuation theorems, strong coupling and non non-Markovian effects, thermodynamic uncertainty relations, operational approaches, Maxwell's demon and time-reversal symmetry, among other topics. Furthermore, the book treats a few applications in detail to illustrate the general theory and its potential for practical applications. These are single-molecule pulling experiments, quantum transport and thermoelectric effects in quantum dots, the micromaser and related set-ups in quantum optics.
The purpose of this work is to discuss recent progress in deriving the fundamental laws of thermodynamics (0th, 1st and 2nd-law) from nonequilibrium quantum statistical mechanics. Basic thermodynamic notions are clarified and different reversible and irreversible thermodynamic processes are studied from the point of view of quantum statistical mechanics. Special emphasis is put on new adiabatic theorems for steady states close to and far from equilibrium, and on investigating cyclic thermodynamic processes using an extension of Floquet theory.
This is an attempt to clarify certain concepts related to a debate on the interpretation of quantum mechanics, a debate between Khrennikov on the one hand and Stacey and Schack on the other hand. Central to this debate is the notion of quantum probabilities. I first take up the probability concept in the QBist school, as seen from my point of view, and then give my own arguments for the Born formula for calculating quantum probabilities. In that connection, I also sketch some consequences of my approach toward the foundation and interpretation of quantum theory. I discuss my general views on QBism as a possible alternative interpretation of quantum mechanics before I give some final remarks.
This paper examines the problem of founding irreversibility on reversible equations of motion from the point of view of the Brussels school's recent developments in the foundations of quantum statistical mechanics. A detailed critique of both their ‘subdynamics’ and ‘transformation’ theory is given. It is argued that the subdynamics approach involves a generalized form of ‘coarse-graining’ description, whereas, transformation theory cannot lead to truly irreversible processes pointing to a preferred direction of time. It is concluded that the Brussels school's conception of microscopic temporal irreversibility, as such, is tacitly assumed at the macroscopic level. Finally a logical argument is provided which shows, independently of the mathematical formalism of the theory concerned, that statistical reasoning alone is not sufficient to explain the arrow of time.