We report some results on the complex-temperature (CT) singularities of $q$-state Potts models on the square lattice. We concentrate on the problematic region $\mathrm{Re}\mathrm{}\left(a\right)<0\mathrm{}$ (where $a=e^K$) in which CT zeros of the partition function are sensitive to finite lattice artifacts. From analyses of low-temperature series expansions for $3<~q<~8$, we establish the existence, in this region, of complex-conjugate CT singularities at which the magnetization and susceptibility diverge. From calculations of zeros of the partition function, we obtain evidence consistent with the inference that these singularities occur at endpoints $a_e$,$a_e^{*}$ of arcs protruding into the (complex-temperature extension of the) ferromagnetic phase. Exponents for these singularities are determined; e.g., for $q=3\mathrm{}$, we find ${\beta }_e=-0.125\mathrm{}\left(1\right)\mathrm{}$, consistent with ${\beta }_e=-\frac{1}{8}$. By duality, these results also imply associated arcs extending into the (CT extension of the) symmetric paramagnetic phase. Analytic expressions are suggested for the positions of some of these singularities; e.g., for $q=5\mathrm{}$, our finding is consistent with the exact value $a_e$, $a_e^{*}=2(-1\mathrm{}\mp i)$. Further discussions of complex-temperature phase diagrams are given.

• Received 28 May 1996

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.54.6174