The Maximum Speed of Natural Processes

Abstract: This presentation will focus on the maximum speed at which natural processes can occur. I will introduce mathematical limits on the maximum speed of observable quantities. These bounds, derived from information-geometric techniques, typically imply trade-offs between the maximum rate of change of a stochastic observable and its standard deviation; higher variability can lead to faster evolution. I will illustrate with examples from stochastic thermodynamics, evolutionary biology, and quantum computing. I will conclude by showing tradeoffs between speed and resiliency in dynamical processes