Computer Simulation

Computational physics is a branch of theoretical physics that deals with the computer simulation of physical processes. It is about the development of models and algorithms that allow to solve complex problems which cannot be handled analytically. On the one hand, the aim is to contribute to the understanding of experimental findings. Only in the close interplay between experiment and theory, a fundamental understanding of new effects can be achieved. On the other hand, computer simulations also allow for the prediction of physical effects that may not yet be experimentally accessible and that can only be confirmed with an advanced technological progress. Due to the rapid development of high-performance computers, complex and realistc systems can already be simulated and precise predictions of their physical behavior can be made. Computer simulations are used in our department in the field of solid state physics, complex materials and soft matter.