Cluster states and π-transition in the Kuramoto model with higher order interactions

We have examined the synchronization and de-synchronization transitions observable in the Kuramoto model with a standard pair-wise first harmonic interaction plus a higher order (triadic) symmetric interaction for unimodal and bimodal Gaussian distributions of the natural frequencies {ωi}. These transitions have been accurately characterized thanks to a self-consistent mean-field approach joined with extensive numerical simulations. The higher-order interactions favor the formation of two cluster states, which emerge from the incoherent regime via continuous (discontinuous) transitions for unimodal (bimodal) distributions. Fully synchronized initial states give rise to two symmetric equally populated bimodal clusters, each characterized by either positive or negative natural frequencies. These bimodal clusters are formed at an angular distance γ, which increases for decreasing pair-wise couplings until it reaches γ=π (corresponding to an anti-phase configuration), where the cluster state destabilizes via an abrupt transition: the π-transition. The uniform clusters that reform immediately after (with a smaller angle γ) are composed of oscillators with positive and negative {ωi}. For bimodal distributions we have obtained detailed phase diagrams involving all the possible dynamical states in terms of standard and novel order parameters. In particular, the clustering order parameter, here introduced, appears quite suitable to characterize the two cluster regime. As a general aspect, hysteretic (non hysteretic) synchronization transitions, mostly mediated by the emergence of standing waves, are observable for attractive (repulsive) higher-order interactions.