Complex Rotating Waves and Long Transients in a Ring-Network of Electrochemical Oscillators with Sparse Random Cross-Connections

TL;DR

This study investigates how random cross-connections and non-isochronicity influence pattern formation in a ring network of electrochemical oscillators, revealing complex dynamics and long transients that can lead to hyper-synchronous states.

Contribution

It combines experiments and phase model simulations to analyze the impact of sparse random links and non-isochronicity on synchronization and pattern formation in electrochemical oscillator networks.

Findings

Additional links promote full synchronization.

Higher non-isochronicity leads to complex rotating waves.

Long transients can trigger sudden hyper-synchronous states.

Abstract

We perform experiments and phase model simulations with a ring network of oscillatory electrochemical reactions to explore the effect of random connections and non-isochronocity of the interactions on the pattern formation. A few additional links facilitate the emergence of the fully synchronized state. With larger non-isochronicity, complex rotating waves or persistent irregular phase dynamics can derail the convergence to global synchronization. The observed long transients of irregular phase dynamics exemplify the possibility of a sudden onset of hyper synchronous behavior without any external stimulus or network reorganization.