Transition to hexagonal pattern under the variation of intrinsic length scales of a reaction diffusion system

The intrinsic length scales of a reaction diffusion system (Gierer-Meinhardt model) is varied by quasi-statically changing the diffusion constant of the activator and a transition from rolls to hexagon is detected. The transition is hysteretic or first order like. From stability analysis, we also analytically show the possibility of such transitions.Received: 15 June 2004, Published online: 3 August 2004PACS: 87.10. + e General theory and mathematical aspects - 47.70.Fw Chemically reactive flows