Fourier coefficients of the net-baryon number density and chiral criticality

Abstract

We investigate the Fourier coefficients $b_k(T)$ of the net--baryon number density in strongly interacting matter at nonzero temperature and density. The asymptotic behavior of the coefficients at large $k$ is determined by the singularities of the partition function in the complex chemical potential plane. Within a QCD-like effective chiral model, we show that the chiral and deconfinement properties at nonzero baryon chemical potential are reflected in characteristic $k$-- and $T$-- dependences of the Fourier coefficients. We also discuss the influence of the Roberge-Weiss transition on these coefficients. Our results indicate that the Fourier expansion approach can provide interesting insights into the criticality of QCD matter.