Dynamics of spring-block models: Tuning to criticality

Abstract

We have studied the homogeneous Burridge-Knopoff spring-block model with nonlinear friction introduced by Carlson and Langer [Phys. Rev. Lett. 62, 2632 (1989); Phys. Rev. A 40, 6470 (1989)]. There are several different velocity scales that define the model and divide the behavior of the system into distinct regimes. Over much of the parameter space defined by these velocities the system appears to be self-organized to what is reminiscent of a first-order transition. As the friction nonlinearity is varied, there appears to be a continuous (critical) transition to a regime where a global event is continually occurring.