Abstract
The two-dimensional,q-state (q>4) Potts model is used as a testing ground for approximate theories of first-order phase transitions. In particular, the predictions of a theory analogous to the Ramakrishnan-Yussouff theory of freezing are compared with those of ordinary mean-field (Curie-Wiess) theory. It is found that the Curie-Weiss theory is a better approximation than the Ramakrishnan-Yussouff theory, even though the former neglects all fluctuations. It is shown that the Ramakrishnan-Yussouff theory overestimates the effects of fluctuations in this system. The reasons behind the failure of the Ramakrishnan-Yussouff approximation and the suitability of using the two-dimensional Potts model as a testing ground for these theories are discussed.
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Dasgupta, C., Pandit, R. Testing approximate theories of first-order phase transitions on the two-dimensional Potts model. J Stat Phys 47, 375–396 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01007516
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01007516