Computer Simulation Using Particles

Computer simulation of systems has become an important tool in scientific research and engineering design, including the simulation of systems through the motion of their constituent particles. Important examples of this are the motion of stars in galaxies, ions in hot gas plasmas, electrons in semiconductor devices, and atoms in solids and liquids. The behavior of the system is studied by programming into the computer a model of the system and then performing experiments with this model. New scientific insight is obtained by observing such computer experiments, often for controlled conditions that are not accessible in the laboratory. Computer Simulation using Particles deals with the simulation of systems by following the motion of their constituent particles. This book provides an introduction to simulation using particles based on the NGP, CIC, and P3M algorithms and the programming principles that assist with the preparations of large simulation programs based on the OLYMPUS methodology. It also includes case study examples in the fields of astrophysics, plasmas, semiconductors, and ionic solids as well as more detailed mathematical treatment of the models, such as their errors, dispersion, and optimization. This resource will help you understand how engineering design can be assisted by the ability to predict performance using the computer model before embarking on costly and time-consuming manufacture.

Roger Hockney obtained his BA and MA in the Natural Science Tripos (Physics) from Cambridge University and his PhD in ‘Numerical Analysis and Plasma Physics’ from Stanford University. He was Professor of Computer Science at Reading University, England, from 1970 to 1985 when he led a research team, supported by the UK Science Research Council, developing simulation methods using particles and implementing them on the new generation of parallel computers. In 1985, he took early retirement in order to concentrate on his own work, and accept visiting appointments.

James Eastwood acquired his BSc and PhD from Imperial College, London University. From 1972 to 1978 he worked with Professor Hockney at Reading University, and since 1978 he has pursued computational plasma physics research at Culham Laboratory. He is currently Editor of the Journal of Computer Physics Communications and a Committee member of The Institute of Physics Computational Physics Group.