Finite-size scaling at the edge of disorder in a time-delay Vicsek model

TL;DR

This paper investigates how time delays affect the finite-size scaling and collective behavior in a Vicsek model of active matter, revealing a transition from diffusive to ballistic dynamics and offering new insights into swarm phenomena.

Contribution

It introduces a numerical study of delay effects on finite-size scaling in the Vicsek model, highlighting a transition in dynamical scaling and providing an alternative explanation for swarm traits.

Findings

Delay initially promotes collective order

Longer delays impede order and change scaling dynamics

Provides an alternative explanation for swarm inertia traits

Abstract

Living many-body systems often exhibit scale-free collective behavior reminiscent of thermal critical phenomena. But their mutual interactions are inevitably retarded due to information processing and delayed actuation. We numerically investigate the consequences for the finite-size scaling in the Vicsek model of motile active matter. A growing delay time initially facilitates but ultimately impedes collective ordering and turns the dynamical scaling from diffusive to ballistic. It provides an alternative explanation of swarm traits previously attributed to inertia.