Anomalous melting scenario of the two-dimensional core-softened system.

We present a computer simulation study of the phase behavior of two-dimensional (2D) classical particles repelling each other through an isotropic core-softened potential. As in the analogous three-dimensional (3D) case, a reentrant-melting transition occurs upon compression for not too high pressures, along with a spectrum of waterlike anomalies in the fluid phase. However, in two dimensions in the low density part of the phase diagram melting is a continuous two-stage transition, with an intermediate hexatic phase. All available evidence supports the Kosterlitz-Thouless-Halperin-Nelson-Young scenario for this melting transition. On the other hand, at the high density part of the phase diagram one first-order transition takes place.