ISSN:
1572-9613
Keywords:
Spin-echo effect
;
algorithmic complexity
;
second law of thermodynamics
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Physics
Notes:
Abstract We analyze the apparent increase in entropy in the course of the spin-echo effect using algorithmic information theory. We show that although the state of the spins quickly becomes algorithmically complex, then simple again during the echo, the overall complexity of spins together with the magnetic field grows slowly, as the logarithm of the elapsed time. This slow increase in complexity is reflected in an increased difficulty in taking advantage of the echo pulse. Our discussion illustrates the fundamental role of algorithmic information content in the formulation of statistical physics, including the second law of thermodynamics, from the viewpoint of the observer.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01017985
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