N-body simulation of spinning particle pairs in a complex plasma crystal

Abstract

Complex plasma, consisting of ionized gas mixed with micron-sized dust particles, exhibit unique behaviors due to the mass disparity between dust grains and other plasma components. These disparities result in non-Hamiltonian dynamics that pose significant challenges for numerical modeling. Under specific conditions, the dust grains self-organize into crystal structures, driven by ion wakefields and subject to imperfections that induce dynamic phenomena like torsions—where dust grains couple and exhibit elliptical motion within the crystal lattice.

To better understand these phenomena, we developed a near real-time interactive computer model grounded in laboratory conditions, specifically replicating the environment within a GEC RF reference cell. This model addresses the challenges of stiffness in differential equations by employing an innovative point charge approach, where each point charge is dynamically influenced by all dust grains, enhancing the model's accuracy and responsiveness. The system allows for user interaction, enabling the manipulation of parameters and near real-time observation of dust behavior. Our approach balances computational efficiency with the ability to simulate complex plasma dynamics, providing a powerful tool for the study of dusty plasma crystals.