General Criterion for Harmonicity

Karel Proesmans, Hans Vandebroek, and Christian Van den Broeck
Phys. Rev. Lett. 119, 147803 – Published 6 October 2017
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Abstract

Inspired by Kubo-Anderson Markov processes, we introduce a new class of transfer matrices whose largest eigenvalue is determined by a simple explicit algebraic equation. Applications include the free energy calculation for various equilibrium systems and a general criterion for perfect harmonicity, i.e., a free energy that is exactly quadratic in the external field. As an illustration, we construct a “perfect spring,” namely, a polymer with non-Gaussian, exponentially distributed subunits which, nevertheless, remains harmonic until it is fully stretched. This surprising discovery is confirmed by Monte Carlo and Langevin simulations.

  • Figure
  • Received 3 March 2017

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.119.147803

© 2017 American Physical Society

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

  1. Physical Systems
Statistical Physics & Thermodynamics

Authors & Affiliations

Karel Proesmans* and Hans Vandebroek

  • Hasselt University, B-3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium

Christian Van den Broeck

  • Hasselt University, B-3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium, Stellenbosch Institute of Advanced Studies, Matieland 7602, South Africa

  • *Karel.Proesmans@uhasselt.be

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Issue

Vol. 119, Iss. 14 — 6 October 2017

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