Mayer and virial series at low temperature (Q438749)

The paper stems from the work [the author, \textit{W. Koenig} and \textit{B. Metzger}, ``Large deviations for cluster size distributions in a continuous classical many-body system'', Preprint; \url{arXiv:1107.3670}] on large deviations for cluster size distributions in a continuous classical many-body system, where seemingly contradictory observations were made on the cluster size distribution at low temperature and low density if compared with standard predictions based on the Mayer activity expansions. Namely, in the presumed regime, Mayer expansions for the interacting classical system indicate an approximate ideal gas behavior. Earlier work by the author showed that it may happen that particles form small compounds, like, e.g., in the diatomic gas. Presently, Mayer and virial series are analyzed for gas particles interacting via a finite range potential with an attractive tail. A physical interpretation of those series radii of convergence is proposed, valid also in the absence of phase transitions. Namely, the Mayer radius gives account of a fast increase from very small to finite density, while the virial radius accounts for a cross-over from monoatomic to polyatomic gas. Results are consistent with the Lee-Yang theorem for lattice gases and with the continuum Widom-Rowlinson model.