Seminars & Colloquia Calendar

Download as iCal file

Mathematical Physics Seminar

Departure from equilibrium and signatures of irreversibility in flocking systems

Irene Giardina - Sapienza University of Rome

Location:  Zoom
Date & time: Wednesday, 06 April 2022 at 10:45AM - 11:45AM

Abstract: Biological groups such as insect swarms and bird flocks are considered as paradigmatic examples of `active' living matter, where self-propelled interacting individuals give rise to collective patterns over large scales. Activity, i.e. the ability of individuals to convert energy into motion, is a crucial feature of these systems. Experiments and theoretical analysis show that - combined with interactions - activity enhances ordering and gives rise to a novel class of dynamic critical behaviour. Activity is primarily related to energy injection and it drives the system out of equilibrium. In this talk, using simple models of collective motion, I will discuss how to quantify the departure from equilibrium in polar active systems, and how to connect it with the emergence of spontaneous order and collective response. I will finally show that signatures of irreversibility can be directly measured from the data and manifest as asymmetries in the two-body distribution.

Special Note to All Travelers

Directions: map and driving directions. If you need information on public transportation, you may want to check the New Jersey Transit page.

Unfortunately, cancellations do occur from time to time. Feel free to call our department: 848-445-6969 before embarking on your journey. Thank you.