Simple model for active nematics: quasi-long-range order and giant fluctuations.
We propose a simple microscopic model for active nematic particles similar in spirit to the Vicsek model for self-propelled polar particles. In two dimensions, we show that this model exhibits a Kosterlitz-Thouless-like transition to quasi-long-range orientational order and that in this nonequilibrium context, the ordered phase is characterized by giant density fluctuations, in agreement with the predictions of Ramaswamy et al.
Chaté
Hugues
H
CEA -- Service de Physique de l'Etat Condensé, Centre d'Etudes de Saclay, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France.
Ginelli
Francesco
F
Montagne
Raúl
R