Connecting the Deep Quench Obstacle Problem with Surface Diffusion via Their Steady States

In modeling phase transitions, it is useful to be able to connect diffuse interface descriptions of the dynamics with corresponding limiting sharp interface motions. In the case of the deep quench obstacle problem (DQOP) and surface diffusion (SD), while a formal connection was demonstrated many years ago, rigorous proof of the connection has yet to be established. In the present note, we show how information regarding the steady states for both these motions can provide insight into the dynamic connection, and we outline tools that should enable further progress. For simplicity, we take both motions to be defined on a planar disk.