Sand-slithering snakes behave like light waves

phys.org

63 points·ColinWright··10 comments

I can't wait to see the double-slit quantum eraser version of this experiment.

Oddly, snake interference patterns are actually exhibited in horses and hikers...

Or at least the basic double-slit experiment with snakes. WILL the snakes form an interference pattern?

Tldr

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"We think the snake is essentially operating in a model that control engineers would consider 'open loop,'" said Goldman. "It is setting a particular motor program on its body, which generates the characteristic wave pattern, and when it collides with the obstacle, its body mechanics allow it to deform and move the posts without degrading its speed."

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Edit-I feel like this is essentially 99%/“a vast majority” of my routine but otherwise complex behaviors like walking, breathing, sleeping, etc.

Try doing a mundane task like grabbing a can of beer from the fridge and, as best you can, passively observe the minutiae of your body’s orchestration. There’s so much precision and style happening autonomously that it feels like something else is driving you body.

Or try being in an elaborate sitting or laying position (like fetal pose) and without moving a muscle, ask your cognitive brain "what muscle will I move now in order to Stand Up". Then just tell your motor brain to Stand Up. You'll be surprised how often "you" would get it wrong...

Exactly. It's like we're the captain of the ship calling orders from the bridge.

Cerebellum "little brain" controls complex motor skills.

In my case the most accurate comparison is probably movement through the goddamned snow mush which is due in a couple months. I.e. ‘just keep jerking the legs until I'm at the destination or hopelessly stalled.’

Aether confirmed.

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