The phase-transition order parameter, fluctuations, and nanoclusters in benzil crystals

Abstract

Bragg and diffuse X-ray reflections from the M points of the Brillouin zone boundary of a benzil crystal paraphrase, the integral intensity of which is associated with the order parameter and its fluctuations, are studied. Original data on the temperature behavior of the order parameter and diffuse scattering are obtained. The relevant critical exponents are determined. A conclusion is drawn as to the proximity of the phase transition in these crystals to the tricritical point. A phase transition model is discussed.