Fluctuation induced network patterns in active matter with spatially correlated noise

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Active Matter Physics
• Statistical Mechanics

Background:

• Fluctuations are crucial in physics, with active matter models typically considering thermal noise from solvents.
• Fluctuating external fields with spatial correlations offer an alternative, less-explored noise source.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a minimal model for investigating the impact of spatially correlated, temporally uncorrelated noise on active particle collective behavior.
• To explore noise-induced phenomena in active matter systems.

Main Methods:

• Development of a minimal model for active particles subjected to spatially correlated noise.
• Analysis of collective behavior, pattern formation, and network characteristics.
• Application of topological data analysis to characterize network structures.

Main Results:

• Spatially correlated noise induces network pattern formation in chiral active particles.
• These networks display a percolated structure with local particle alignment but no global alignment.
• The observed networks exhibit minimal coarsening and are distinct from those formed by thermal noise or in the absence of fluctuations.

Conclusions:

• Spatially correlated noise can drive novel collective behaviors and pattern formation in active matter.
• The study highlights the importance of considering non-thermal noise sources in active matter systems.
• This work provides a foundation for exploring noise-induced phenomena and developing new active matter models.