Finite-size effects and the search for the critical endpoint in heavy ion collisions

Abstract

We discuss how the finiteness of the system created in a heavy-ion collision affects possible signatures of the QCD critical endpoint. We show sizable results for the modifications of the chiral phase diagram at volume scales typically encountered in current heavy-ion collisions and address the applicability of finite-size scaling as a tool in the experimental search for the critical endpoint.

arXiv comment9 pages, 6 figures; talk given at the 5th International Workshop on Critical Point and Onset of Deconfinement (CPOD 2009), June 08 - 12, BNL, USA