Flocking and clustering of self-propelled disks with active reorientation

In this talk we present a numerical investigation of self-propelled disks that integrates a behavior of active reorientation in analogy to collision avoidance in animal herds. The results of our simulations show rich phase dynamics including a flocking state, and a clustering state as a result of the mobility-induced phase separation. With a systematic exploration, our study reveals the unexpected link between the two collective behaviors. This study illustrated the importance of active reorientation on the emergent behaviors of self-propelled particles relevant to many natural and engineered active systems.