How Significant is the Role of Algorithm and Computer Technology Developments?
Due to the continuous synergistic progress in algorithm development, computer technology, and computational science methodology, the scope of large-scale problems such as the one just mentioned can be continuously increased. Examples can be matched to the curve corresponding to the increase in computing power of Cray vector supercomputers. At the time the Cray 1S emerged, codes forcasting the weather were accurate for no more than 12 hours. The Cray XMP raised that limit to 24 hours and plasma modeling in 2D became feasible. With the Cray 2 weather forcasting for 48 hours, modeling in chemical dynamics and estimate of the Higgs Boson Mass were addressed. The Cray YMP allowed 72 hour weather forcasting, and 2D nonlinear hydrodynamics. The C90 has made pharmaceutical design, and vehicle signature feasible. Similarly, following the curve of Intel’s massively parallel systems, there are examples of problems that could be addressed in an increasing scope as the has computing power increased
