Liquid 4He: contributions to first principles theory of quantized vortices, thermohydrodynamic properties, and the lambda transition

TL;DR

This paper develops a first principles theoretical framework for liquid helium-4, addressing quantized vortices, thermohydrodynamics, and the lambda transition, supported by experimental data and relevant to broader physics fields.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive atomistic model that explains superfluid properties, vortex behavior, and the lambda transition, filling gaps in the understanding of liquid helium-4.

Findings

Quantized vortices can produce a lambda anomaly in specific heat.

New calculations align with experimental data.

Proposes a specific heat experiment to test the theory.

Abstract

Liquid 4He has been studied extensively for almost a century, but there are still a number of outstanding weak or missing links in our comprehension of it. This paper reviews some of the principal paths taken in previous research and then proceeds to fill gaps and create an integrated picture with more complete understanding through first principles treatment of a realistic model that starts with a microscopic, atomistic description of the liquid. Newly derived results for vortex cores and thermohydrodynamic properties for a two-fluid model are used to show that interacting quantized vortices may produce a lambda anomaly in specific heat near the superfluid transition where flow properties change. The nature of the order in the superfluid state is explained. Experimental support for new calculations is exhibited, and a unique specific heat experiment is proposed to test predictions of the theory. Relevance of the theory to modern research in cosmology, astrophysics, and Bose-Einstein condensates is discussed.