Abstract
A spin-1 lattice-gas model, similar to the Blume-Emery-Griffiths model for - mixtures, is shown to describe condensation and solidification of a simple fluid. The Ising-like Hamiltonian of the system involves quadrupolar and dipolar interactions, which are responsible for condensation and solidification, respectively. The molecular-field approximation is used, and the ordinary phase diagram of a simple fluid is reproduced. However, for some range of the parameters, the liquid-gas equilibrium curve disappears. Also, the melting curve may exhibit a tricritical point: For pressures larger than the tricritical pressure, critical melting is found. Other physical applications of the model are briefly discussed.
- Received 19 February 1974
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.11.2079
©1975 American Physical Society