Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026

Method to Measure Tone of Axial and Proximal Muscle
Published on: December 14, 2011
Current reversals in a rocking ratchet: the frequency domain
A Wickenbrock1, D Cubero, N A Abdul Wahab
1Department of Physics and Astronomy, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Motivated by recent work [D. Cubero et al., Phys. Rev. E 82, 041116 (2010)], we examine the mechanisms which determine current reversals in rocking ratchets as observed when varying the frequency of the drive. We found that a class of these current reversals in the frequency domain is precisely determined by dissipation-induced symmetry breaking. Our experimental and theoretical work thus extends and generalizes the previously identified relationship between dynamical and symmetry-breaking mechanisms in the generation of current reversals.
Related Concept Videos
Basic signals of Fourier Transform
The sinc function, defined as sinc(x) = sin(πx)/(πx), is particularly notable for its symmetry and behavior at zero. It...
RLC Series Circuits
Series RLC Circuit without Source
Region of Convergence
RLC Circuit as a Damped Oscillator
Consider a series RLC circuit. Here, the presence of resistance in the circuit leads to energy loss due to joule heating in the resistance. Therefore, the total electromagnetic energy in the circuit is no longer constant and decreases with time. Since the magnitude of charge, current, and potential difference continuously decreases, their oscillations are said to be damped. This is...
Resonance in an AC Circuit

