Classification of Phase Transitions in Small Systems

Peter Borrmann, Oliver Mülken, and Jens Harting
Phys. Rev. Lett. 84, 3511 – Published 17 April 2000
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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

Authors & Affiliations

Peter Borrmann, Oliver Mülken, and Jens Harting

  • Department of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany

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Issue

Vol. 84, Iss. 16 — 17 April 2000

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