Tuning nonequilibrium phases with odd forces: From crystalline order to vortex structures in systems with competing interactions
Phys. Rev. E 113, 024110 – Published 9 February, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/6mx1-y3yf
Abstract
Nonequilibrium chiral active systems exhibit diverse collective phenomena arising from the interplay between driving forces and interparticle interactions. We numerically investigate a two-dimensional system of particles with competing long-range repulsion and short-range attraction, driven by nonconservative odd forces. We identify five distinct nonequilibrium phases: a crystalline state with long-range translational and orientational order; a triangular velocity configuration exhibiting velocity-space ordering; a nematic phase featuring orientational alignment without polar order; a bubble phase with vortical flows along void boundaries; and a rotating cluster phase showing dynamic restructuring. The transitions between these phases are systematically controlled by varying the attraction strength and the odd-force intensity, revealing a rich phase diagram. Our results underscore the crucial role of odd forces in steering the structural and dynamical evolution of active matter with competing interactions.
