Particles don't always go with the flow (and why that matters)
Phys.org
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Particles don’t always follow the flow through porous materials like soil or biological tissues, according to groundbreaking research from Yale University. Contrary to the common assumption that tiny particles passively move with the current, Professor Amir Pahlavan’s team discovered that even subtle chemical changes—such as variations in salt concentration—can drastically alter how these particles migrate. This finding challenges long-held beliefs about particle transport and could have significant implications for fields like medicine, environmental science, and material design.
The study, published in *Science Advances*, reveals that gentle chemical gradients can redirect or slow down particle movement, creating unexpected patterns. By conducting experiments with controlled salt concentration changes, the researchers observed how particles responded to these conditions. Their results demonstrate that the interplay between chemical gradients and physical flow can lead to complex behaviors, such as particles accumulating in certain areas or moving against the flow entirely.
This discovery is particularly relevant for understanding processes like drug delivery, where particles need to navigate through bodily tissues, or groundwater contamination, where pollutants move through soil and rock. By recognizing how chemical gradients influence particle movement, scientists and engineers can design more effective systems for filtering, delivering, or blocking substances in porous materials.
The research also opens new avenues for studying biological systems, such as how cells or molecules interact within tissues. The insights gained from this work could lead to advancements in medical treatments, environmental cleanup technologies, and material science innovations. Ultimately, this study highlights the importance of considering both physical and chemical factors when analyzing particle transport in complex environments.
In a world where understanding movement at microscopic levels is crucial for solving global challenges, Pahlavan’s findings challenge traditional assumptions and pave the way for new discoveries. This research not only deepens our knowledge of fundamental scientific principles but also offers practical applications that could improve human health and the environment.
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/19/2026