The random cascading origin of abrupt transitions in interdependent systems

Area of Science:

• Statistical Physics
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Network Science

Background:

• Continuous phase transitions are understood through external global changes.
• The origins of abrupt phase transitions remain unclear.
• Interdependent superconducting networks exhibit complex behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the mechanism behind abrupt phase transitions in interdependent superconducting networks.
• To identify the role of internal cascading mechanisms.
• To investigate the properties of a metastable state preceding abrupt transitions.

Main Methods:

• Experimental investigation of interdependent superconducting networks.
• Analysis of resistance cascading phenomena.
• Characterization of metastable states and cascading events.
• Measurement of plateau time length, system size, and distance from criticality.
• Calculation of branching factor and critical exponents.

Main Results:

• Abrupt phase transitions are driven by an internal random spatial cascading mechanism.
• A unique metastable state, characterized by a long-living resistance cascading plateau, governs the transition.
• Cascading events occur spontaneously at random locations, preceding a global phase shift.
• Plateau duration exhibits scaling laws with system size and proximity to criticality.
• The branching factor, analogous to epidemic spreading, equals one at the critical point and indicates proximity to system collapse.

Conclusions:

• Internal cascading mechanisms, particularly the metastable resistance plateau, are key to abrupt phase transitions.
• The branching factor serves as a critical early warning signal for catastrophic system cascades.
• Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for predicting and preventing system collapse in complex networks.