Phase transitions of methane using molecular dynamics simulations

Using a short ranged Lennard-Jones interaction and a long ranged electrostatic potential, CH(4)under high pressure was modeled. Molecular dynamics simulations on small clusters (108 and 256 molecules) were used to explore the phase diagram. Regarding phase transitions at different temperatures, our numerical findings are consistent with experimental results to a great degree. In addition, the hysteresis effect is displayed in our results. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.