Shocks Generate Crossover Behaviour In Lattice Avalanches
Adaptation and Self-Organizing Systems
2015-06-16 v2 Statistical Mechanics
Mathematical Physics
math.MP
Abstract
A spatial avalanche model is introduced, in which avalanches increase stability in the regions where they occur. Instability is driven globally by a driving process that contains shocks. The system is typically subcritical, but the shocks occasionally lift it into a near or super critical state from which it rapidly retreats due to large avalanches. These shocks leave behind a signature -- a distinct power--law crossover in the avalanche size distribution. The model is inspired by landslide field data, but the principles may be applied to any system that experiences stabilizing failures, possesses a critical point, and is subject to an ongoing process of destabilization which includes occasional dramatic destabilizing events.
Cite
@article{arxiv.1308.4302,
title = {Shocks Generate Crossover Behaviour In Lattice Avalanches},
author = {James Burridge},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1308.4302},
year = {2015}
}