Three-Particle Correlations in Simple Liquids

K. Zahn, G. Maret, C. Ruß, and H. H. von Grünberg
Phys. Rev. Lett. 91, 115502 – Published 9 September 2003

Abstract

We use videomicroscopy to follow the phase-space trajectory of a two-dimensional colloidal model liquid and calculate three-point correlation functions from the measured particle configurations. Approaching the fluid-solid transition by increasing the strength of the pair-interaction potential, one observes the gradual formation of a crystal-like local order due to triplet correlations, while being still deep inside the fluid phase. Furthermore, we show that in a strongly interacting system the Born-Green equation can be satisfied only with the full triplet correlation function but not with three-body distribution functions obtained from superposing pair correlations (Kirkwood superposition approximation).

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 8 May 2003

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.91.115502

©2003 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

K. Zahn, G. Maret, C. Ruß, and H. H. von Grünberg

  • Fachbereich Physik, Universität Konstanz, P.O. Box 5560, 78457 Konstanz, Germany

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 91, Iss. 11 — 12 September 2003

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review Letters

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×