Self-Propulsion at Low Reynolds Number

Alfred Shapere and Frank Wilczek
Phys. Rev. Lett. 58, 2051 – Published 18 May 1987
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Abstract

We formulate the problem of self-propulsion at low Reynolds number in terms of a gauge field over the space of shapes. The computation of this field is discussed, and carried out in some examples. We apply our results to determine maximally efficient infinitesimal swimming motions of spheres and circular cylinders.

  • Received 23 March 1987

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.58.2051

©1987 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Alfred Shapere and Frank Wilczek

  • Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106

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Issue

Vol. 58, Iss. 20 — 18 May 1987

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