Disorder and Competition in Soluble Lattice Models (Advances in Statistical Mechanics)

This book considers some exactly soluble lattice models in order to discuss modern methods and concepts in statistical mechanics. The authors use ideas from the theory of dynamical systems, general methods of statistical physics (thermodynamic limit, convexity and algebraic properties) and quantum mechanical techniques (Bethe Ansatz, conformal invariance, Perron-Frobenius theorem). The behaviour of systems are illustrated as dilute antiferromagnets, spin glasses, and modulated magnets and alloys. Specific examples are included to discuss the most important concepts (as disorder or frustration). Some simple lattice models are shown to give rise to spectacular phase diagrams, with multicritical points and sequences of modulated phases. A number of exercises are included to help the comprehension of the most representative issues. This book may be useful to graduate students in many areas of theoretical physics (condensed matter, field theory, mathematical physics).