Phases and correlations in active nematic granular systems.

Sharma, Abhishek; Soni, Harsh · Soft Matter · 2024

basic_science · Level V

Where this comes from

Abstract

We investigate the statistical behavior of a system comprising fore-aft symmetric rods confined between two vertically vibrating plates using numerical simulations closely resembling the experimental setup studied by V. Narayan <i>et al.</i>, <i>Science</i>, 2007, <b>317</b>, 105-108. Our focus lies in studying the phase transition of the system from an isotropic phase to a nematic phase as we increase either the rod length or the rod concentration. Our simulations confirm the presence of long-range ordering in the ordered phase. Furthermore, we identify a phase characterized by a periodic ordering profile that disrupts translation symmetry. We also provide a detailed analysis of the translational and rotational diffusive dynamics of the rods. Interestingly, the translational diffusivity of the rods is found to increase with the rod concentration.