Work fluctuation, entropy, and time's arrow in time-asymmetric engine cycles

Abstract

We derive a thermodynamic uncertainty relation that governs the work yield and the entropy production of an engine operating with a time-asymmetric cycle such as the Carnot cycle. The relation shows an intercorrelation between one engine cycle and its time-reversed cycle, disclosing the role of the time-asymmetry of an engine cycle. It also illustrates that entropy production and the arrow of time appear as the central quantities controlling the average and the fluctuation of work.