On the order of the deconfining transition in N_f=2 QCD

TL;DR

This study uses lattice simulations to analyze the phase transition in two-flavor QCD, providing evidence that the chiral transition is likely first order based on finite size scaling of thermodynamic quantities.

Contribution

It offers a detailed finite size scaling analysis of the chiral transition in N_f=2 QCD, suggesting a first-order transition contrary to some previous expectations.

Findings

Indicates a first-order chiral transition in N_f=2 QCD

Finite size scaling supports the first-order transition hypothesis

Provides critical indices for the phase transition

Abstract

A careful study is made on the lattice of the phase diagram of QCD with two staggered flavors, to investigate the order of the chiral transition of N_f=2 QCD. The specific heat and the susceptibility of the chiral condensate are determined for different spatial sizes of the system, and a finite size scaling analysis provides a determination of the (pseudo)critical indices. The result is a strong indication that the chiral transition is first order.