MONTE-CARLO METHODS IN QUANTUM MANY-BODY PROBLEMS

A review is given of recent progress in the numerical simulation of quantum many-body systems by Monte Carlo methods. The basic idea of Monte Carlo quadrature and its use in variational estimates of the energy of extensive quantum systems is recapitulated. Techniques necessary to treat problems in neutron and nuclear matter are discussed. The basis of another algorithm, the Green function Monte Carlo method which was proved capable of integrating the Schrödinger equation for as many as two hundred particles, is sketched. Calculations carried out with this technique show somewhat different results as compared with variational methods with simple product trial functions. Prospects for future treatment of problems of interest in nuclear physics are discussed. © 1979.