Year: 2000
Type: article
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.
Source: Physical Review Letters
Authors: Peter Borrmann, Oliver Mülken, Jens Harting
Institution: Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg
Language: English
Subfield: Condensed Matter Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W1996922813