Finite- and infinite-time cluster formation for alignment dynamics on the real line

Abstract

We show that the locations where finite- and infinite-time clustering occur for the 1D Euler-alignment system can be determined using only the initial data. Our present work provides the first results on the structure of the finite-time singularity set and asymptotic clusters associated with a weak solution. In many cases, the eventual size of the cluster can be read off directly from the flux associated with a scalar balance law formulation of the system.