Memory and Entropy

I study the physical nature of traces. Surprisingly, (i) systems separation with (ii) temperature differences and (iii) long thermalization times are sufficient conditions to produce macroscopic traces. Traces of the past are ubiquitous because these conditions are largely satisfied in our universe. I quantify these thermodynamical conditions for memory and derive an expression for the maximum amount of information stored in such memories as a function of the relevant thermodynamical parameters. This mechanism transforms low entropy into available information. I suggest that all macroscopic information has this origin in past low entropy.

Automated summary

This study examines the physical nature of traces and suggests that macroscopic information originates from past low entropy, based on the quantification of thermodynamical conditions and the relationship with information storage.