Colloidal Dynamics on a Choreographic Time Crystal

TL;DR

This paper explores the behavior of colloids interacting with a choreographic time crystal, revealing various dynamic phases and transitions driven by trap parameters, with implications for broader particle systems.

Contribution

It introduces the first simulation study of colloids on a choreographic time crystal, identifying phase transitions and the role of vertex frustration effects.

Findings

Identification of multiple dynamic phases including chiral loop and liquid states

Transitions explained by vertex frustration during the choreographic cycle

Results applicable to various particle systems like vortices and cold atoms

Abstract

A choreographic time crystal is a dynamic lattice structure in which the points comprising the lattice move in a coordinated fashion. These structures were initially proposed for understanding the motion of synchronized satellite swarms. Using simulations we examine colloids interacting with a choreographic crystal consisting of traps that could be created optically. As a function of the trap strength, speed, and colloidal filling fraction, we identify a series of phases including states where the colloids organize into a dynamic chiral loop lattice as well as a frustrated induced liquid state and a choreographic lattice state. We show that transitions between these states can be understood in terms of vertex frustration effects that occur during a certain portion of the choreographic cycle. Our results can be generalized to a broader class of systems of particles coupled to choreographic structures, such as vortices, ions, cold atoms, and soft matter systems.