Abstract
We present a classification scheme for phase transitions in finite systems like atomic and molecular clusters based on the Lee-Yang zeros in the complex temperature plane. In the limit of infinite particle numbers the scheme reduces to the Ehrenfest definition of phase transitions and gives the right critical indices. We apply this classification scheme to Bose-Einstein condensates in a harmonic trap as an example of a higher order phase transition in a finite system and to small Ar clusters.
- Received 14 October 1999
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.84.3511
©2000 American Physical Society