What is computer simulation technique?
K. Tirupathy, Tiruchi, T.N. ANSWER: To simulate a phenomenon, on a computer or otherwise, we need a mathematical model that imitates the phenomenon. Such a model can be obtained if we understand the basic principles involved. As an example consider the motion of the Earth around the Sun. The Sun and Earth attract each other. Once we know or model this gravitational force we can simulate the elliptic orbit of Earth. Here we do not need a computer since the governing equation is simple. But consider a slightly more complicated problem of a projectile hurled in the atmosphere. Here the friction of air comes into picture. It is a complicated function of the shape of the projectile, its orientation and velocity (last two are not known apriori). The trajectory can be simulated by approximate numerical techniques. We start with the condition of the projectile (position and velocity; then frictional force is known) at some instant. We can calculate its condition after a very small time interva
