Thermodynamic properties of two-component fermionic atoms trapped in a two-dimensional optical lattice

We study the finite temperature properties of two-component fermionic atoms trapped in a two-dimensional optical lattice. We apply the self-energy functional approach to the two-dimensional Hubbard model with a harmonic trapping potential, and systematically investigate the thermodynamic properties of this system. We find that entropy and grand potential provide evidence of a crossover between the Mott insulating and metallic phases at certain temperatures. In addition, we find that entropy exhibits a cusp-like anomaly at lower temperatures, suggesting a second or higher order antiferromagnetic transition. We estimate the antiferromagnetic transition temperatures, and clarify how the trapping potential affects this magnetic transition.
Comment: 9 pages, 13 figures