Phi spark
A phi spark is a commonly seen (for example, during the evolution of a Herschel) large symmetric spark that dies in 9 generations. It gains its name from resemblance of its generation 1 to a Greek capital letter phi (Φ).
The pentadecathlon splits into two phi sparks during its cycle for the span of five generations; their central halves regenerate the oscillator, while the outer halves die as usual.
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A phi spark. |
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Generation 1 reveals the origin of the name. |
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A triangle is a common parent of the phi spark. |
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A 7-cell pattern arising from a Herschel, which becomes a phi spark in 8 generations (a triangle in 7). |
Phi sparks can interact with gliders.
| (click above to open LifeViewer) RLE: here Plaintext: here |
While most phi sparks have a triangle as a parent, there are other parents. The second most common parent is below. A 2×5 rectangle also becomes a phi spark in one generation, but its natural occurrence is uncommon.
| Another phi spark parent (click above to open LifeViewer) |
As an induction coil
Some natural period-2 oscillators have generation 0 of the phi spark with the three-cell leading edge on each side stabilized by various objects. The center oscillates with period 2 in a similar manner to a spark coil or test tube baby.
| An example of the paragraph above (click above to open LifeViewer) |
See also
External links
- Phi spark at the Life Lexicon