Current reversal and exclusion processes with history-dependent random walks

Schulz, Johannes H. P.; Kolomeisky, Anatoly B. und Frey, Erwin (2009): Current reversal and exclusion processes with history-dependent random walks. In: EPL (Europhysics Letters), Vol. 5, No. 3, 30004

Abstract

A class of exclusion processes in which particles perform history-dependent random walks is introduced, stimulated by dynamic phenomena in some biological and artificial systems. The particles locally interact with the underlying substrate by breaking and reforming lattice bonds. We determine the steady-state current on a ring, and find current-reversal as a function of particle density. This phenomenon is attributed to the non-local interaction between the walkers through their trails, which originates from strong correlations between the dynamics of the particles and the lattice. We rationalize our findings within an effective description in terms of quasi-particles which we call front barriers. Our analytical results are complemented by stochastic simulations.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Form of publication: Postprint
• Faculties: Physics
• Subjects: 500 Science > 530 Physics
• Language: English