Noise-enhanced signal detection in a bistable system
Stochastic resonance occurs in a bistable double-well potential V(x) = −x²/2 + x⁴/4 driven by a weak subthreshold signal. At optimal noise level, the noise causes transitions between wells in synchrony with the signal — boosting detection. The SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) peaks at an intermediate noise level rather than monotonically decreasing, a phenomenon observed in neuroscience, climate, and electronic systems.