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Thermodynamic cost of computation, algorithmic complexity and the information metricAlgorithmic complexity is discussed as a computational counterpart to the second law of thermodynamics. It is shown that algorithmic complexity, which is a measure of randomness, sets limits on the thermodynamic cost of computations and casts a new light on the limitations of Maxwell's demon. Algorithmic complexity can also be used to define distance between binary strings.
Document ID
19890066401
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Zurek, W. H.
(Los Alamos National Laboratory NM, United States)
Date Acquired
August 14, 2013
Publication Date
September 14, 1989
Publication Information
Publication: Nature
Volume: 341
ISSN: 0028-0836
Subject Category
Cybernetics
Accession Number
89A53772
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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