Computer Simulation Methods

Abstract

In this chapter we give a condensed introduction to the basic features of computer simulation methods. We particularly review the Monte Carlo method of importance sampling and the principles of molecular dynamics simulations. Some of the systematic effects associated with computer simulations, such as finite-size effects, statistical errors and so on, are reviewed. The Ising model is introduced in order to provide a concrete illustration of the Monte Carlo method, which will be useful also in later chapters as a simple context in which to present some of the algorithms we will discuss. It is assumed that the reader has at least some prior understanding or experience of the material covered i..