We demonstrate that confinement geometry can optimally accelerate first-passage rates beyond free diffusion in passive stochastic processes. Introducing generalized confinement model based on the Fick-Jacobs approach and simulations, we find nonmonotonic mean first-passage rates driven by confinement geometry and curvature. Through the transmission probability, our findings highlight how confinement optimizes transport dynamics in trap-and-escape processes, with implications for molecular translocation and reaction kinetics in soft matter and biological systems.
Won Kyu Kim (Tue,) studied this question.