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Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Spatial Separation of Molecular Conformers and Clusters
Published on: January 9, 2014
On the Lindemann criterion for quantum clusters at very low temperature
1IFIC (CSIC-Universidad de Valencia), Edificio Institutos de Paterna, Apartado Postal 22085, 46071 Valencia, Spain.
The Lindemann criterion helps determine if quantum clusters are solid-like or liquid-like at zero temperature. A new parameter is proposed, but a single parameter is insufficient to define the state of quantum clusters.
Area of Science:
- Quantum mechanics
- Condensed matter physics
- Computational physics
Background:
- The Lindemann criterion is a common method to distinguish between solid and liquid phases.
- Its applicability to quantum clusters at zero temperature requires careful consideration.
- Existing parameters may not be suitable for identical particles in quantum systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically analyze the Lindemann criterion for quantum clusters at absolute zero.
- To propose a new, appropriate Lindemann parameter for identical particles.
- To investigate the solid-like or liquid-like nature of quantum clusters.
Main Methods:
- Development of a simple model wave function.
- Introduction of a new parameter for Lindemann criterion analysis.
- Variational and diffusion Monte Carlo calculations.
- Study of spinless bosons with Lennard-Jones potentials.
Main Results:
- A new Lindemann parameter was proposed for identical particles.
- A model wave function was used to define parameter ranges.
- Monte Carlo simulations were performed on boson clusters.
- The study demonstrated that a single parameter is insufficient.
Conclusions:
- The liquid-like or solid-like nature of quantum clusters at T=0 is complex.
- A single parameter cannot definitively establish the state of quantum clusters.
- Further development of criteria for quantum systems is needed.
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