Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026

Analyzing Melts and Fluids from Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Simulations with the UMD Package
Published on: September 17, 2021
Twofold reentrant melting in a double-Gaussian fluid
Santi Prestipino1, Cristina Speranza1, Gianpietro Malescio1
1Dipartimento di Fisica e di Scienze della Terra, Università degli Studi di Messina, Contrada Papardo, I-98166 Messina, Italy.
The double-Gaussian model (DGM) reveals complex phase behavior in soft matter physics. This model, with bounded repulsion and weak attraction, shows two fluid and four solid phases, including reentrant melting.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Physics
- Soft Matter Physics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Isotropic pair potentials with bounded origin repulsion model macromolecular interactions.
- Gaussian-core potentials are established models in soft matter physics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phase behavior of point particles with a double-Gaussian potential.
- To analyze the complex phase diagram arising from bounded repulsion and weak attraction.
Main Methods:
- Free-energy calculations were employed to characterize phase coexistence.
- Systematic simulation and analysis of the double-Gaussian model (DGM).
Main Results:
- The DGM exhibits a rich phase diagram with two fluid and four distinct solid phases.
- Detailed characterization of three-phase confluence regions was achieved.
- Two lines of reentrant melting were identified and explained.
Conclusions:
- The double-Gaussian model offers a richer phase behavior than simpler potentials.
- Reentrant melting phenomena are linked to the elastic properties of the solid phases.
- This study provides a comprehensive understanding of DGM phase behavior for soft matter applications.
More Related Videos
11:38Combining Microfluidics and Microrheology to Determine Rheological Properties of Soft Matter during Repeated Phase Transitions
Published on: April 19, 2018
06:55Synthesis of Cyclic Polymers and Characterization of Their Diffusive Motion in the Melt State at the Single Molecule Level
Published on: September 26, 2016
Related Concept Videos
Phase Transitions: Melting and Freezing
Two Components: Liquid–Liquid Systems
Solid–Solid Solutions
Comparing Intermolecular Forces: Melting Point, Boiling Point, and Miscibility
Temporary attractive forces like dispersion are present in all molecules, whether they are polar or nonpolar. They...
Nonideal Two-Component Liquid Solutions
Phase Transitions: Sublimation and Deposition