Stochastic resonance as a crisis in a period-doubled circuit

Abstract

Stochastic resonance, a phenomenon in which random transitions between states in a multistate system are modulated by an external periodic signal, is usually studied statistically. In an experiment with a period-doubled circuit, we observe transitions between the two phases of the response induced by noise or chaos. Adding a weak periodic modulation allows us to observe stochastic resonance. It is also noted that transitions between phases are caused by a crisis which may be observed in the circuit. As a result, we are able to describe stochastic resonance with the techniques of deterministic dynamics, providing a link between the fields of deterministic and stochastic mechanics.