Abstract
We investigate boundary-driven phase transitions in open driven diffusive systems. The generic phase diagram for systems with short-ranged interactions is governed by a simple extremal principle for the macroscopic current, which results from an interplay of density fluctuations with the motion of shocks. In systems with more than one extremum in the current-density relation, one finds a minimal current phase even though the boundaries support a higher current. The boundary layers of the critical minimal current and maximal current phases are argued to be of a universal form. The predictions of the theory are confirmed by Monte Carlo simulations of the two-parameter family of stochastic particle hopping models of Katz, Lebowitz, and Spohn and by analytical results for a related cellular automaton with deterministic bulk dynamics. The effect of disorder in the particle jump rates on the boundary layer profile is also discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
