A comparison between transitions induced by random and periodic fluctuations

It is shown that a certain class of nonlinear systems possesses a unique and stable stationary state when subjected to periodic dichotomous modulations of an external parameter. This result enables us to define a probability density for the system and to characterize its shape and support. We compare this probability density with the one obtained in the case that the external parameter fluctuates randomly like a Markovian dichotomous noise and discuss various fluctuation-induced transition phenomena. The effects of these two types of fluctuations are quite dissimilar: the random fluctuations give rise to a richer behavior. The results are applied to the Freedericksz transition in nematic liquid crystals.