Northwestern physicists find disorder can make complex networks more stable
Northwestern University researchers published a study in Science showing that variation among components can increase stability in power grids and biological systems.
New mathematical framework for stability
Scientists at Northwestern University developed a new mathematical framework to analyze complex networks. Their research overturns the long-held assumption that uniform components are required for reliable system function. The team discovered that differences between generators, neurons, or material parts can actually enhance overall robustness.
Potential applications for engineers
Engineers could use these findings to build more resilient power grids and architected materials. The study suggests that deliberately designed differences might improve performance in interconnected systems. This approach also helps explain why natural networks like food webs contain so much variation.
Online tool for researchers
The research team created a website to allow others to use their new framework. This resource supports further investigation into how disorder affects physical and biological systems. The work was published in the journal Science by Northwestern physicists.
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