Correctness of certain integral equation theories for core-softened fluids

Abstract

Integral equation approaches, based on the Ornstein-Zernike equation, provide a fast way to calculate phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties of systems as opposed to time-consuming and computationally expensive computer simulations. However, when employing integral equations it is necessary to introduce simplifications. The Ornstein-Zernike equation merely relates two unknown functions h(r) and c(r), and another relation (closer) between these two functions is needed. The later function cannot be obtained in a closed form and it is always in some approximations. Various approximations exist with each of its own advantages and disadvantages. In this work we extensively tested hyper-netted chain, Percus-Yevick, Kovalenko-Hirata, and Rogers-Young closure on an interaction model with core-softened potential. Convergence domain was established for each method. We calculated pair distribution functions, pressure, and excess energy. Results were compared with Monte Carlo simulation results and literature data from molecular dynamics simulations.