Theoretical Concepts

We start the main part of this thesis with an overview of the theoretical concepts central to this work. Before discussing active matter and a few key systems, such as self-propelled particles and microswimmers, we introduce Langevin and Fokker–Planck equations as basic descriptive elements of stochastic systems in statistical physics. After a recap of the theory behind classic pattern formation processes, we discuss concepts of fluid dynamics and turbulence. Further, we introduce continuous phase transitions with a focus on universality classes and scaling exponents.