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Vortex behavior in light-driven active particle systems

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  • Zhong, Weirong

Abstract

This study incorporated a mechanism into the active particle dynamics model, where particle velocity aligns with the gradient direction of the light field. By modulating the light field coupling strength and spot size, we systematically investigated the response of active particles to the light field. Appropriate light induces an emergent phenomenon in active particles: vortices. Results show that vortex strength in the light-driven active particle system evolves non-monotonically with increasing light coupling strength. Light spot size and particle density significantly influence vortex structure formation. Using average angular velocity and vorticity as key dynamic indicators, this study quantitatively and intuitively characterizes the non-equilibrium phase transition process. This phenomenon reveals that vortices in active matter systems macroscopically manifest the matching of various characteristic scales.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhong, Weirong, 2026. "Vortex behavior in light-driven active particle systems," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 682(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:phsmap:v:682:y:2026:i:c:s0378437125008386
    DOI: 10.1016/j.physa.2025.131186
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    References listed on IDEAS

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