Periodic Oscillatory Motion of a Self‐Propelled Motor Driven by Decomposition of H₂O₂ by Catalase

Abstract

A self-propelled motor driven by the enzymatic reaction of catalase adsorbed onto a filter paper floating on an aqueous solution of H₂ O₂ was used to study nonlinear behavior in the motor's motion. An increase in the concentration of H₂ O₂ resulted in a change from no motion to irregular oscillatory motion, periodic oscillatory motion, and continuous motion. The mechanisms underlying oscillation and mode bifurcation are discussed based on experimental results on O₂ bubble formation and growth on the underside of the motor.