Microswimmers: Squirmer Model

The squirmer model describes a spherical microorganism propelling itself by surface deformations. The key parameter β = B₂/B₁ distinguishes: pushers (β<0, bacteria-like, extend flow behind) and pullers (β>0, algae-like, extend flow in front). β=0 is a neutral squirmer. The far-field flow is a Stokeslet + force-dipole.

Squirmer Parameters

Type: Neutral

Squirmer surface speed:
u_θ = B₁ sin θ + B₂ sin θ cos θ
β = B₂/B₁

Far-field dipole strength
∝ β (pusher: +, puller: −)

Pusher (E. coli-like)
Neutral
Puller (Chlamydomonas)