Nonequilibrium Phase Transition in a System of Sedimenting Reproducing Particles
Nonequilibrium Phase Transition in a System of Sedimenting Reproducing Particles
- Event time: 1:00pm
- Event date: 27th October 2008
- Speaker: Conrad Barrett-Freeman (Formerly School of Physics & Astronomy, University of Edinburgh)
- Location: Room 2511, James Clerk Maxwell Building (JCMB) James Clerk Maxwell Building Peter Guthrie Tait Road Edinburgh EH9 3FD GB
Event details
Inspired by in-house experiments on bacterial sedimentation, we studied a modification of the Fisher equation and analysed how the resulting density distributions differed from those of passive colloids. By using agent-based simulations and a direct numerical integration of the equation of motion, we found evidence of a non-equilibrium phase transition. This can be understood as competition between gravity and advancing Fisher waves. I will discuss features of the transition as well as some findings concerning the role of noise in the system.
About Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars
This is a weekly series of informal talks given primarily by members of the institute of condensed matter and complex systems, but is also open to members of other groups and external visitors. The aim of the series is to promote discussion and learning of various topics at a level suitable to the broad background of the group. Everyone is welcome to attend..