(A→B) Life
(A→B) Life is a concept and term originating from John Horton Conway's Game of Life, a zero-player game also known as a cellular automaton. It describes a pattern or configuration in the Game of Life that evolves from an initial state (A) to a different, stable or oscillating state (B) after a certain number of generations. The "Life" part refers to the Game of Life environment in which this transformation occurs.
More specifically, (A→B) Life emphasizes the dynamic process of change within the game. It highlights the transition from one distinct arrangement of cells to another, demonstrating the complex and sometimes unpredictable evolution of patterns based on the game's simple rules. The transformation may involve the creation of new stable structures, the disappearance of existing ones, or the evolution of oscillators from a static initial state.
Understanding (A→B) Life patterns is important in studying the emergent behavior and computational capabilities of the Game of Life. It illustrates how simple local rules can give rise to complex global dynamics. Research into these patterns often involves searching for and cataloging specific transformations, analyzing their stability, and exploring their potential applications within the Game of Life universe, such as constructing logic gates or self-replicating structures. The discovery and analysis of (A→B) Life patterns are significant in furthering understanding of cellular automata, emergence, and computational universality.