title: Solution of the boundary value problem for optimal escape in continuous stochastic systems and maps.
abstract: Topologies of invariant manifolds and optimal trajectories are investigated in stochastic continuous systems and maps. A topological method is introduced that simplifies the solution of boundary value problems: The activation energy is calculated as a function of a set of parameters characterizing the initial conditions of the escape path. The method is applied explicitly to compute the optimal escape path and the activation energy for a variety of dynamical systems and maps.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physics, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YB, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Beri
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Mannella
authors.forename: D G
authors.initials: DG
authors.lastname: Luchinsky
authors.forename: A N
authors.initials: AN
authors.lastname: Silchenko
authors.forename: P V E
authors.initials: PV
authors.lastname: McClintock