Classical artificial two-dimensional atoms: the Thomson model

TL;DR

This paper investigates classical 2D atom configurations using the Thomson model, comparing analytical ring configurations with numerical simulations, and explores how potential forms affect these configurations and system eigenmodes.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of classical 2D atom configurations within the Thomson model, including comparisons with numerical results and eigenmode analysis.

Findings

Ring configurations depend on potential forms

Eigenmodes with frequency independent of particle number identified

Comparison between analytical and numerical configurations conducted

Abstract

The ring configurations for classical two-dimensional atoms are calculated within the Thomson model and compared with the results from `exact' numerical simulations. The influence of the functional form of the confinement potential and the repulsive interaction potential between the particles on the configurations is investigated. We also give exact results on those eigenmodes of the system whose frequency does not depend on the number of particles in the system.