Gap and pseudogap evolution within the charge-ordering scenario for superconducting cuprates

We describe the spectral properties of underdoped cuprates as resulting from a momentum-dependent pseudogap in the normal-state spectrum. Such a model accounts, within a BCS approach, for the doping dependence of the critical temperature and for the two-parameter leading-edge shift observed in the cuprates. By introducing a phenomenological temperature dependence of the pseudogap, which finds a natural interpretation within the stripe quantum-critical-point scenario for high- superconductors, we reproduce also the bifurcation near optimum doping. Finally, we briefly discuss the different role of the gap and the pseudogap in determining the spectral and thermodynamical properties of the model at low temperatures. Received 17 February 2000