Quantum Mpemba Effect Achieves Faster Equilibrium, Scaling with System Size

The counterintuitive Mpemba effect, where a system far from equilibrium actually reaches stability faster than one initially closer to it, continues to fascinate scientists, and now extends beyond simple temperature changes into the realm of quantum mechanics. Rodrigo F. Saliba and Raphael C. Drumond, both from Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, investigate this quantum Mpemba effect in open quantum systems, revealing a physical basis rooted in the preservation of quantum information through decoherence-free subspaces. Their work demonstrates that this effect can be dramatically amplified with larger systems, leading to exceptionally rapid equilibration, and further clarifies how to accurately identify and measure this phenomenon using quantum unravelings. By proposing a detailed microscopic model, the researchers offer new insights into the dynamics of the surrounding environment and its influence on this surprising quantum behaviour. This work extends the classical Mpemba effect, traditionally observed with cooling water, to the realm of open quantum systems, those interacting with their environment. Researchers propose that specific properties of the system allow it to bypass typical equilibration processes, potentially leading to an exponential increase in the rate of reaching equilibrium, scaling with system size. They explored this effect using mathematical tools that model the evolution of quantum states, revealing subtleties in how different measurements can impact its identification.

Quantum Mpemba Effect Driven by Decoherence This research demonstrates that the quantum Mpemba effect can occur through the exploitation of decoherence-free subspaces within quantum systems. These subspaces represent areas shielded from certain types of quantum disruption, allowing for faster relaxation towards equilibrium. Importantly, the study reveals an extreme version of the quantum Mpemba effect, characterized by an exponential increase in the speed of reaching equilibrium as system size increases. Experiments revealed that states originating from these protected subspaces exhibit faster thermalization compared to standard states.

Quantum Mpemba Effect Driven by Decoherence Scientists have demonstrated the quantum Mpemba effect, where a system far from equilibrium reaches stability faster than expected. This work extends the classical Mpemba effect beyond simple temperature changes, exploring it within open quantum systems. Researchers proposed a physical mechanism rooted in decoherence-free subspaces, areas within the system shielded from certain types of quantum disruption. Experiments revealed that an exponential enhancement of the decay rate towards equilibrium can be achieved, scaling with system size.

The team investigated the effect using detailed models of system-environment interactions, confirming that states with fewer quantum coherences build stronger connections with their surroundings, leading to faster thermalization. These findings provide evidence that decoherence-free subspaces can be exploited to achieve the quantum Mpemba effect in both small and large quantum systems.

Quantum Mpemba Effect Driven by Decoherence This research demonstrates that the quantum Mpemba effect can occur through exploitation of decoherence-free subspaces within Markovian open quantum systems. Further investigation of the effect at the level of individual quantum trajectories revealed a dependence on the excited-state population and an inhibition caused by system coherences.

The team established that this mechanism is robust to variations in temperature and system size, suggesting potential applications in areas such as quantum optics and ultracold gases. Importantly, the study reveals an extreme version of the quantum Mpemba effect, characterized by an exponential increase in the speed of reaching equilibrium as system size increases. 👉 More information 🗞 Unraveling the Quantum Mpemba Effect on Markovian Open Quantum Systems 🧠 ArXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.13509 Tags: Rohail T. As a quantum scientist exploring the frontiers of physics and technology. My work focuses on uncovering how quantum mechanics, computing, and emerging technologies are transforming our understanding of reality. I share research-driven insights that make complex ideas in quantum science clear, engaging, and relevant to the modern world. Latest Posts by Rohail T.: High-field Magnetotransport Reveals Non-linear States in Graphite Crystals December 17, 2025 Classical-quantum Transition in RNiO Nickelates Enables Magnetic Ordering with Spin-Triplet Centers December 17, 2025 Accelerated Training Enables Neuromorphic Photonic Computing for Arbitrary Memory Pattern Classification December 17, 2025