SEMIROTORS IN THE JOSEPHSON-JUNCTION EQUATIONS

We consider the dynamics of arrays of N-series coupled Josephson junct ions, under pure resistive and capacitive loads. In the limit of the j unction capacitance becoming large, we prove the existence of semiroto r solutions. These are periodic solutions in which the phase differenc e across the gap in k of the junctions oscillates with small amplitude while the remaining N - k phase differences increase by 2 pi radians per period. We investigate the stability of these solutions and report observations of chaotic behavior associated with these solutions.