Long-range correlations in a simple stochastic model of coupled transport

TL;DR

This paper investigates a simple one-dimensional model of independent random walkers sharing energy, revealing that long-range correlations naturally emerge in the nonequilibrium stationary state, akin to more complex systems.

Contribution

It demonstrates that long-range correlations can arise in a minimal coupled transport model without complex interactions.

Findings

Long-range correlations observed in the model's stationary state.

Correlations similar to those in realistic coupled transport systems.

Model provides insight into fundamental mechanisms of nonequilibrium phenomena.

Abstract

We study coupled transport in the nonequilibrium stationary state of a model consisting of independent random walkers, moving along a one-dimensional channel, which carry a conserved energy-like quantity, with density and temperature gradients imposed by reservoirs at the ends of the channel. In our model, walkers interact with other walkers at the same site by sharing energy at each time step, but the amount of energy carried does not affect the motion of the walkers. We find that already in this simple model long-range correlations arise in the nonequilibrium stationary state which are similar to those observed in more realistic models of coupled transport.