In non-linear physics, the accordion effect occurs when fluctuations in the motion of a travelling body causes disruptions in the flow of elements following it. This can happen in road traffic, foot marching, bicycle racing, and, in general, to processes in a pipeline. This effect generally decreases the throughput of the system in which it occurs.
The accordion effect is known by various aliases such as the 'slinky effect' or the 'Concertina effect', and the string instability.
Famous quotes containing the word effect:
“Let’s take the instant by the forward top;
For we are old, and on our quick’st decrees
Th’ inaudible and noiseless foot of time
Steals ere we can effect them.”
—William Shakespeare (1564–1616)