Random heterogeneity outperforms design in network synchronization
Abstract
Synchronization among interacting entities is a process that underlies the function of numerous systems, including circadian clocks and laser arrays. It is generally believed that homogeneity among the entities is beneficial for synchronization. This work shows theoretically, numerically, and experimentally that the opposite is not only possible but also common in systems with interaction delays. In such systems, heterogeneity among the entities is shown to promote synchronization, even when the heterogeneity is completely random. This finding advances our understanding of the interplay between order and disorder in the collective behavior of complex systems. We suggest that the phenomenon can be observed for diverse coupling schemes and has implications for real-world systems, where heterogeneity and delays are common and often unavoidable.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- May 21, 2021
- Source ID
- 10.1073/pnas.2024299118
Entities
People
- Adilson E. Motter
- István Z. Kiss
- Jorge Luis Ocampo‐Espindola
- Yuanzhao Zhang
Organizations
- Army Research Office
- Cornell University
- National Science Foundation
- Northwestern University
- Saint Louis University