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Interface free energies in p-spin glass models
1School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom.
In finite dimensions, the one-step replica symmetry breaking (1RSB) state in p-spin glass models is destroyed by thermal excitations. This finding suggests the 1RSB state does not exist in these systems, impacting structural glass theory.
Area of Science:
- Statistical Mechanics
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Computational Physics
Background:
- The study investigates p-spin glass models, focusing on the one-step replica symmetry breaking (1RSB) phase.
- Understanding the stability of such phases in finite dimensions is crucial for theoretical models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To calculate the interface free energy in finite-dimensional p-spin glass models.
- To determine the existence and stability of the 1RSB phase in finite dimensions.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the replica method to compute interface free energy.
- Analyzing the transition between periodic and antiperiodic boundary conditions.
Main Results:
- The interface free energy is found to be exponentially small in large finite systems.
- This indicates that thermal excitations can destroy the 1RSB state.
Conclusions:
- The one-step replica symmetry breaking (1RSB) state does not exist in finite dimensions.
- The findings have implications for the theoretical understanding of structural glasses.
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