Onset of synchronization in complex gradient networks

Recently, it has been found that the synchronizability of a scale-free network can be enhanced by introducing some proper gradient in the coupling. This result has been obtained by using eigenvalue-spectrum analysis under the assumption of identical node dynamics. Here we obtain an analytic formula for the onset of synchronization by incorporating the Kuramoto model on gradient scale-free networks. Our result provides quantitative support for the enhancement of synchronization in such networks, further justifying their ubiquity in natural and in technological systems.