Transient turing structures in a gradient-free closed system.

Transient, symmetry-breaking, spatial patterns were obtained in a closed, gradient-free, aqueous medium containing chlorine dioxide, iodine, malonic acid, and starch at 4 degrees to 5 degrees C. The conditions under which these Turing-type structures appear can be accurately predicted from a simple mathematical model of the system. The patterns, which consist of spots, stripes, or both spots and stripes, require about 25 minutes to form and remain stationary for 10 to 30 minutes.