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arXiv · 2008.12806

Mean encounter times for multiple random walkers on networks

Alejandro P. Riascos·David P. Sanders
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Abstract

We introduce a general approach for the study of the collective dynamics of non-interacting random walkers on connected networks. We analyze the movement of $R$ independent (Markovian) walkers, each defined by its own transition matrix. By using the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the $R$ independent transition matrices, we deduce analytical expressions for the collective stationary distribution and the average number of steps needed by the random walkers to start in a particular configuration and reach specific nodes the first time (mean first-passage times), as well as global times that characterize the global activity. We apply these results to the study of mean first-encounter times for local and non-local random walk strategies on different types of networks, with both synchronous and asynchronous motion.

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BibTeXRIS

Alejandro P. Riascos, David P. Sanders. 2020-08-28. Mean encounter times for multiple random walkers on networks. https://doi.org/10.1103/physreve.103.042312

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