A self-organized critical transport model based on critical-gradient fluctuation dynamics

A one-dimensional transport model based on critical-gradient fluctuation dynamics is presented. This model has the characteristic properties of a self-organized critical (SOC) system. As the source increases and for an input flux above a threshold value, a dynamical transition spontaneously takes place. A high-gradient edge region forms. The width of this region increases with increasing value of the particle source. Transport dynamics in this edge region self-organizes to be very close to marginal stability, while the core remains at the subcritical gradient that is typical of a SOC system. (C) 2002 American Institute of Physics.