Brownian motors powered by nonreciprocal interactions

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Statistical Mechanics
• Soft Matter

Background:

• Traditional molecular motors rely on nonequilibrium driving and Newton's third law for particle interactions.
• Natural systems often exhibit behaviors that appear to defy these established principles.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate particle transport in a two-dimensional ratchet potential with nonreciprocal interactions.
• Explore how nonreciprocity influences directed motion and thermodynamic equilibrium.

Main Methods:

• Simulated transport of mixed Brownian particles.
• Analyzed particle behavior in a 2D ratchet potential.
• Introduced and quantified nonreciprocal interactions.

Main Results:

• Nonreciprocal interactions can generate a zero-mean, nonequilibrium driving force, disrupting thermodynamic equilibrium.
• Directed particle motion is induced, with direction dictated by potential asymmetry.
• Average velocity shows a peaked dependence on nonreciprocity, while diffusion increases with nonreciprocity.

Conclusions:

• A mechanism for particle rectification is demonstrated, independent of autonomous nonequilibrium drive.
• Findings suggest potential applications in systems with inherent nonreciprocal interactions.
• Optimal conditions (temperature, packing fraction) exist for maximum average velocity.