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Updated: May 24, 2026

An Analog Macroscopic Technique for Studying Molecular Hydrodynamic Processes in Dense Gases and Liquids

An Analog Macroscopic Technique for Studying Molecular Hydrodynamic Processes in Dense Gases and Liquids

Published on: December 4, 2017

Deterministic Smoluchowski-Feynman ratchets driven by chaotic noise.

Lock Yue Chew¹

¹Division of Physics and Applied Physics, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371. lockyue@ntu.edu.sg

Physical Review. E, Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics

|March 10, 2012

Summary

Statistical asymmetry enhances directed current in Smoluchowski-Feynman ratchets driven by chaotic noise. This effect, explained by a source term in analytical expressions, pushes systems further from equilibrium.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: May 24, 2026

An Analog Macroscopic Technique for Studying Molecular Hydrodynamic Processes in Dense Gases and Liquids

An Analog Macroscopic Technique for Studying Molecular Hydrodynamic Processes in Dense Gases and Liquids

Published on: December 4, 2017

Area of Science:

Statistical physics
Non-equilibrium systems
Complex systems

Background:

Smoluchowski-Feynman ratchets are models used to study directed motion in systems driven by noise.
Chaotic noise introduces complex dynamics that can influence particle transport.
Understanding the role of statistical asymmetry is crucial for controlling directed current.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the impact of statistical asymmetry on directed current in Smoluchowski-Feynman ratchets.
To develop analytical expressions for directed current under chaotic noise.
To explore how statistical asymmetry drives systems away from thermodynamic equilibrium.

Main Methods:

Utilized the inhomogeneous Smoluchowski equation and its generalized version.
Derived analytical expressions for the directed current.
Analyzed different types of Smoluchowski-Feynman ratchets (constant flashing, state-dependent, tilted).

Main Results:

Developed analytical expressions for directed current including a source term.
Demonstrated that statistical asymmetry acts as a source term.
Showed that statistical asymmetry drives the system further from thermodynamic equilibrium.
Observed an enhancement in directed current due to statistical asymmetry.

Conclusions:

Statistical asymmetry is a key factor in enhancing directed current in these ratchets.
The derived source term quantifies the deviation from thermodynamic equilibrium.
This work provides insights into controlling directed transport in non-equilibrium systems.