Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Indeed. The web simulation clearly applies damping, which is an irreversible element. A truly reversible process should probably be built around minimally-damped oscillating elements, so that the stored energy never needs to dissipate.


Even if damping is removed they might not be reversible. Logic gates that were found to be individually reversible, were found to have difficulties operating when connected in a circuit: https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/603242297.pdf


It's impossible to avoid incurring some losses at finite speed, but as far as I know there is nothing fundamental preventing one from approaching reversible operation when operating at a sufficiently slow (but nonzero) speed.




Consider applying for YC's Winter 2026 batch! Applications are open till Nov 10

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: