Physics

A colloidal viewpoint on the sausage catastrophe and the finite sphere packing problem

S. Marín-aguilar, F. Camerin, et al.

This intriguing research by Susana Marín-Aguilar, Fabrizio Camerin, Stijn van der Ham, Andréa Feasson, Hanumantha Rao Vutukuri, and Marjolein Dijkstra delves into the finite sphere packing problem, challenging the notion that tight clustering is always optimal. By exploring linear arrangements along with colloidal experiments, it reveals surprisingly efficient packing configurations and insights into the 'sausage catastrophe'.... show more

Abstract

It is commonly believed that the most efficient way to pack a finite number of equal-sized spheres is by arranging them tightly in a cluster. However, mathematicians have conjectured that a linear arrangement may actually result in the densest packing. Here, our combined experimental and simulation study provides a physical realization of the finite sphere packing problem by studying arrangements of colloids in a flaccid lipid vesicle. We map out a state diagram displaying linear, planar, and cluster conformations of spheres, as well as bistable states which alternate between cluster-plate and plate-linear conformations due to membrane fluctuations. Finally, by systematically analyzing truncated polyhedral packings, we identify clusters of 56 ≤ N ≤ 70 number of spheres, excluding N = 57 and 63, that pack more efficiently than linear arrangements.

Publisher

Nature Communications

Published On

Nov 30, 2023

Authors

Susana Marín-Aguilar, Fabrizio Camerin, Stijn van der Ham, Andréa Feasson, Hanumantha Rao Vutukuri, Marjolein Dijkstra

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-43722-0

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