Abstract
Monte Carlo simulations are used to show that the orientational ordering transition of planar quadrupoles on a triangular lattice is first order. The orientational ground state is a herringbone structure, and the transition lies in the universality class of a (n=3, d=2) Heisenberg model with face-oriented cubic anisotropy. The Monte Carlo results are related to recent low-energy electron-diffraction studies of N2 on graphite. Domainwall motion and the applicability of this model to herringbone phases of liquid crystals are also discussed.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Physical Review Letters |
Volume | 48 |
Issue number | 3 |
Pages (from-to) | 181-184 |
Number of pages | 4 |
ISSN | 0031-9007 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1982 |
Externally published | Yes |