Brazilian scientists develop new theory explaining order in complex systems

Scientists from the University of Sao Paulo (USP) have made a discovery that overturns a concept that has been accepted in science for around 400 years, reports Metrópoles, a partner of TV BRICS.

It was previously thought that if two objects had a similar rhythm, over time they would naturally begin to operate in synchronisation. For example, two pendulums might gradually adjust to each other. This principle was first described in the 17th century by the scientist Christiaan Huygens.

However, new research has shown that sometimes two elements cannot synchronise on their own. They need a third element to alter their interaction.

Brazilian scientists developed a mathematical theory and tested it experimentally. They created a system of small devices that could not synchronise in pairs. However, when a third element was added to the system, a clear pattern emerged amongst all three.

The impetus for the research was the idea that the link between heavy rainfall in India and the El Nino phenomenon (a natural climatic phenomenon in which the water in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean becomes unusually warm) may depend not only on the direct interaction of these processes but also on an additional factor that alters their mutual influence – volcanic activity.

This led the researchers to wonder: perhaps this principle also applies to other complex systems.

The discovery could change the way many processes are studied.

For example, in neuroscience, scientists often look at how two areas of the brain are connected. But sometimes a third area can influence their interaction. If one studies only the pairs, one might fail to notice the true organisation of the system.

According to the researchers, sometimes a system begins to function in a coordinated manner not because of two participants, but because of a third one, which helps them find a common rhythm.