Synchronization Defect Lines

Spatially distributed reaction–diffusion media where the local dynamics exhibits complex oscillatory or chaotic dynamics are investigated. Spiral waves in such complex-oscillatory or excitable media contain synchronization defect lines which separate domains of different oscillation phases and across which the phase changes by multiples of 2π. Such synchronization defect lines arise from the need to reconcile the rotation period of a one-armed spiral wave with the oscillation period of the local dynamics. We analyze synchronization defect lines and show how to classify them and enumerate their types. In certain parameter regions the spatially distributed system exhibits line defect turbulence arising from the nucleation, growth and destruction of defect lines. The transitions to line defect turbulence may be characterized by power law behavior of order parameters and may be described as nonequilibrium phase transitions.