Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology have examined California blackworms (Lumbriculus variegatus) to uncover the principles behind the rapid untangling of tangled active matter, which could enhance the design of advanced materials. By employing ultrasound imaging, theoretical analysis, and simulations, the study revealed that resonant helical waves created by the worms’ movements facilitate collective tangling and swift untangling. This research provides insights into the topology of tangled active matter, which could inspire innovative multifunctional materials with adaptable topological properties.
California blackworms can form large, intricate tangles of up to 50,000 individual worms that can become disentangled in milliseconds. The study aimed to understand the mechanisms behind this process, revealing that the worms’ movements create highly interactive systems where most worms are in contact with each other. This collective behavior highlights a general dynamical principle for the rapid unknotting of filamentous materials, which could extend to various systems involving tangled fibers.
The findings contribute to a broader understanding of active entanglement and disentanglement, suggesting potential applications in developing smart materials and robotic systems. The research is documented in a recent publication in the journal Science.
