Reaction-noise induced homochirality

Starting from the chemical master equation, we employ field theoretic techniques to derive Langevin-type equations that exactly describe the stochastic dynamics of the Frank chiral amplification model with spatial diffusion. The intrinsic multiplicative noise properties are completely and rigorously derived by this procedure. We carry out numerical simulations in two spatial dimensions. When the inherent spatio-temporal fluctuations are properly included, then complete chiral amplification results from a purely racemic initial configuration. Phase separation can also arise in which the enantiomers coexist in spatially segregated domains separated by a sharp racemic interface or boundary. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.