Finite-size scaling of O(n) models with singular behaviour

Abstract

The finite-size scaling hypothesis of Privman and Fisher (Phys. Rev. B, 30, 322 (1984)) is applied to systems with O(n) symmetry [Formula: see text], confined to geometry Ld − d′ × ∞d′ (where d and d′ are continuous variables such that 2 < d′ < d < 4) and subjected to periodic boundary conditions. Predictions, involving amplitudes as well as exponents, are made on the singular part of the specific heat c(s), spontaneous magnetization m0, magnetic susceptibility χ0, and correlation length ξ0 in the region of the second-order phase transition [Formula: see text]. Analytical verification of these predictions is carried out in the case of the spherical model of ferromagnetism (n = ∞), which includes evaluation of the shift in the critical temperature of the system.