Directed motion and useful work from an isotropic nonequilibrium distribution

We demonstrate that a gas of classical particles trapped in an external asymmetric potential undergoes a quasiperiodic motion, if the temperature of its initial velocity distribution T(NE) differs from the equilibrium temperature T(eq). The magnitude of the effect is determined by the value of T(NE)−T(eq), and the direction of the motion is determined by the sign of this expression. The "loading" and "unloading" of the gas particles change directions of their motion, thereby creating a possibility of shuttle-like motion. The system works as a Carnot engine where the heat flow between kinetic and potential parts of the nonequilibrium distribution produces the useful work.

Physical Review E (Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics)

Physical Review E (Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics)

77

1550-2376

N/A

1

5