# Synopsis: Ordering in hydrogen under high pressure

Molecular dynamics studies indicate a new phase of liquid hydrogen under high pressure.

The behavior of hydrogen under pressure affects fields ranging from condensed matter physics to astrophysics. Compressed liquid hydrogen exhibits a molecular-to-atomic transition. However, despite several experiments, the theoretical debate on the nature of this transition, in particular whether it is a continuous or discontinuous (first-order) transition, has not yet been settled.

In an article in Physical Review Letters, Isaac Tamblyn and Stanimir Bonev of Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada, employ molecular dynamics to map the phase diagram of dense hydrogen over a large range of temperatures and pressures. Their findings suggest an unreported phase in the liquid with short-ranged orientational order, resulting from a transition that they predict should occur in the liquid above $100\phantom{\rule{0.333em}{0ex}}\text{GPa}$. This new phase may explain certain characteristics of the molecular-to-atomic transition, the shape of the melting line, as well as the structure of hydrogen mixtures. The authors argue that a first-order transition is likely, and the new insight provided should spur future experimental work. – Sami Mitra

### Announcements

More Announcements »

Fluid Dynamics

Magnetism

## Next Synopsis

Atomic and Molecular Physics

## Related Articles

Fluid Dynamics

### Viewpoint: Particles Move to the Beat of a Microfluidic Drum

A thin vibrating plate can organize microscopic particles within a liquid into different patterns, an effect like that observed in 18th century studies of musical instruments. Read More »

Fluid Dynamics

### Focus: Superfluid Increases Force of Laser Light

Shining a laser onto a microscopic object coated with a superfluid film induces flows that can generate a controlled force. Read More »

Fluid Dynamics

### Synopsis: Whisky-Inspired Coatings

As a whisky drop dries, a combination of molecules in the liquid ensure a spatially uniform deposition—a finding that could inspire coating technologies. Read More »