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Nature 432, 455-456 (25 November 2004) | doi:10.1038/432455a; Published online 24 November 2004
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Nonlinear physics: Fresh breather
David K. Campbell1
Abstract
The direct observation of highly localized, stable, nonlinear excitations — known as discrete breathers — at the atomic level underscores their importance in physical phenomena at all scales.
Stanislaw Ulam, the celebrated Polish mathematician and godfather of the field now known as nonlinear science, famously remarked that using the term 'non-linear science' was like "calling the bulk of zoology the study of non-elephants". He meant that linear processes are the exception rather than the rule; that most phenomena are inherently nonlinear; and that the effects of nonlinearity are apparent everywhere in nature, from the synchronized flashing of fireflies through clear-air turbulence to tornadoes and tsunamis.
- David K. Campbell is at the College of Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
Email: dkcampbe@bu.edu
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