Inhomogeneity-induced second-order phase transitions in the Potts model on hierarchical lattices

Thermodynamics of the Potts model with an arbitrary number of states is analyzed for a class of hierarchical lattices of fractal dimension d > 1. In contrast to the case of crystal lattice, it is shown that all phase transitions on lattices of this type are of the second order. Critical exponents are determined, their dependence on structural parameters is examined, and scaling relations between them are established. A structural criterion for change in transition order is discussed for inhomogeneous systems. Application of the results to critical phenomena in phase transitions in dilute crystals and porous media is discussed.