First-order rigidity transition on Bethe Lattices

Abstract

Tree models for rigidity percolation are introduced and solved. A probability vector describes the propagation of rigidity outward from a rigid border. All components of this ``vector order parameter'' are singular at the same rigidity threshold, $p_c$. The infinite-cluster probability $P_{\infty}$ is usually first-order at $p_c$, but often behaves as $P_{\infty} \sim ΔP_{\infty} + (p-p_c)^{1/2}$, indicating critical fluctuations superimposed on a first order jump. Our tree models for rigidity are in qualitative disagreement with ``constraint counting'' mean field theories. In an important sub-class of tree models ``Bootstrap'' percolation and rigidity percolation are equivalent.