Active Matter: Statistical Physics and the Arrow of Life, by Professor Mike Cates FRS FRSE (Lucasian Professor of Mathematics, University of Cambridge)
University of Glasgow Distinguished Lecture Series: Sneddon Lecture in Applied Mathematics
Abstract
Active matter comprises particles whose microscopic dynamics breaks time-reversal symmetry (TRS) via the continuous conversion of fuel into motion, resulting in entropy production at the microscopic scale. Examples include bacteria and synthetic self-propelled colloids. Equilibrium statistical physics concepts, for instance the Boltzmann distribution, are not applicable to active matter because these concepts assume the TRS of the underlying microscopic laws. When viewed at a coarse grained level, the microscopic absence of TRS may either remain obvious at large scales or become almost undetectable. In the latter case, we retain the hope that equilibrium concepts, at least in some modified form, may be applicable. This talk will discuss the mathematical toolbox needed to characterise the presence or absence of TRS at coarse-grained level, focusing on global and local measures of entropy production. Put differently: when, and how, can you tell whether life’s movie is running backwards?
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