Statistical mechanics for natural flocks of birds

Details Statistical mechanics for natural flocks of birds Statistical mechanics for natural flocks of birds

2011-07-04

arxiv.org/abs/1107.0604v1

Physics

Biological Physics

Scientific paper

Interactions among neighboring birds in a flock cause an alignment of their flight directions. We show that the minimally structured (maximum entropy) model consistent with these local correlations correctly predicts the propagation of order throughout entire flocks of starlings, with no free parameters. These models are mathematically equivalent to the Heisenberg model of magnetism, and define an "energy" for each configuration of flight directions in the flock. Comparing flocks of different densities, the range of interactions that contribute to the energy involves a fixed number of (topological) neighbors, rather than a fixed (metric) spatial range. Comparing flocks of different sizes, the model correctly accounts for the observed scale invariance of long ranged correlations among the fluctuations in flight direction.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Statistical mechanics for natural flocks of birds does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Statistical mechanics for natural flocks of birds, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Statistical mechanics for natural flocks of birds will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-3963