Computer simulation study of the melting transition in two dimensions

We have performed computer simulations for a two-dimensional system of classical point particles interacting via an r(-12) repulsive pair potential to study the melting transition. As the density is increased, the equilibrium system develops hexatic order at pressures lower than the lowest values achievable in an equilibrium crystal. Finite size scaling analysis of the bond orientational order and translational order gives exponents for correlations in the hexatic and solid that are consistent with the Kosterlitz-Thouless-Halperin-Nelson-Young picture.