The domino effect: successive destabilization by cooperative neighbours

Abstract

A coherent wave of destabilization can sweep through a periodic array of discrete, marginally stable elements that interact with neighbours during toppling. There is an intrinsic or natural speed for propagation of destabilization if potential energy is released by toppling; when a natural speed exists, the speed of propagation asymptotically approaches this natural speed as toppling progresses through the array. A wave of destabilization that arises from the cooperative action of a group of toppling neighbours has a natural speed that increases with the number of members in the cooperative group.