We describe the astrophysical and numerical basis of N-body simulations, both of collisional stellar systems (dense star clusters and galactic centres) and collisionless stellar dynamics (galaxies and large-scale structure). We explain and discuss the state-of-the-art algorithms used for these quite different regimes, attempt to give a fair critique, and point out possible directions of future improvement and development. We briefly touch upon the history of N-body simulations and their most important results. © Società Italiana di Fisica / Springer-Verlag 2011.
CITATION STYLE
Dehnen, W., & Read, J. I. (2011). N-body simulations of gravitational dynamics. European Physical Journal Plus, 126(5), 1–28. https://doi.org/10.1140/epjp/i2011-11055-3
Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.