First-order transition in the one-dimensional three-state Potts model with long-range interactions

The first-order phase transition in the three-state Potts model with long-range interactions decaying as 1/r(1+sigma) has been examined by numerical simulations using the recently proposed Luijten-Blote algorithm. By applying scaling arguments to the interface free energy, the Binder's fourth-order cumulant and the specific heat maximum, the change in the character of the transition through variation of parameter sigma was studied. [S1063-651X(98)15410-7].