Quantum coherence and thermodynamics.

Finite-time thermodynamic transformations typically lead to the generation of energetic coherence in the out-of-equilibrium state of a quantum system. In fact, it is possible to identify a contribution to the irreversible entropy production that is due to coherence generation. On the other hand, coherence is connected also to the non-adiabaticity of a processes, for which it gives the dominant contribution for slow-enough transformations. With the help of fluctuation theorems, we will provide a full characterization of the irreversible entropy being generated because of deviation from adiabaticity, and because of coherence production. Furthermore, we will discuss the distinguished role played by initial coherence in the thermodynamics of quantum systems, describing how thermodynamic cycles can be designed to extract work from it.