Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: According to Purcell's scallop theorem, reciprocal single-degree-of-freedom shape deformations cannot achieve net propulsion in a viscous fluid. We show that this limitation is bypassed by thermal fluctuations in a two-parameter driven potential landscape. Formulating the stochastic shape dynamics via a Smoluchowski equation with position-dependent mobility $M_\mathrm{eff}(x)$, we utilize a generalized inverse operator to evaluate the slow-driving response. Cyclic modulation of the control parameters induces a non-zero Berry-Sinitsyn-Nemenman curvature $F_{12}(\bmθ)$, resulting in directed geometric propulsion. Simultaneously, the non-adiabatic excess dissipation is dictated by a Riemannian thermodynamic metric $g_{ij}(\bmθ)$. Our results provide a unified geometric foundation that bridges hydrodynamic friction, stochastic mechanics, and thermodynamic trade-offs in micro-swimmers.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Author: Hayakawa, Hisao
Institutions: Kyoto University, Yukawa Institute for Theoretical Physics
Language: English
Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7204244179