A Dynamical Quantum Daemon

Abstract

We study the irreversibility \`a la Maxwell from a quantum point of view, involving an arbitrarily large ensemble of independent particles, with a daemonic potential that is capable of inducing asymmetries in the evolution, exhibiting new perspectives on how Maxwell's apparent paradox is posed and resolved dynamically. In addition, we design an electromagnetic cavity, to which dielectrics are added, fulfilling the function of a daemon. Thereby, this physical system is capable of cooling and ordering incident electromagnetic radiation. This setting can be generalized to many types of waves, without relying on the concept of measurement in quantum mechanics.