Short-range order in linear systems

For linear systems in the continuum in which the particles interact with nearest-neighbor forces, the pair distribution function at short distances can be expressed exactly in a simple form. Results are given for various hard-core interaction potentials, in which the attractive potential is either constant (square-well potential), linear, or V-shaped. The second form is related to the depletion interaction. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.