Physics (Internal)

Stability of Complex Networks under Random Node Failure

This event is part of the Preliminary Oral Exam.

Abstract: Statistical physics of many complex systems are often studied through a complex networks approach. Oftentimes, complex networks show a rich variety of sub-structures. Studying these sub-structures in complex networks and understanding their stability under random node failure is of prime interest. One such important sub-structure that is often studied is k-core. k-cores are traditionally defined for integer values of k and k-core stability characteristics under node failure have been studied. I define a new sub-structure, fractional k-cores, by extending the definition of k to non-integer values. I also discuss the stability of these sub-structures which helps us understand more precisely how networks fail and could lead to rules in designing networks with desired failure properties.

Examining Committee:

H.E. Stanley, Plamen Ivanov, William Skocpol, Kevin Black