Application of experimental and numerical models to the physics of multiparticle systems

Abstract

The complementary use of computer simulations and analogue simulations to explore the physics of multiparticle systems is demonstrated. Applications to problems of current interest (e.g. non-equilibrium pattern formation, granular flow, and the physics of disordered materials) are emphasized. The ability to describe complex systems in quantitative terms using concepts such as fractal geometry and scaling and the development of new theoretical approaches has led to substantial progress during the past ten years, but we still seem quite far from a general theoretical understanding of many of the problems discussed in this review. The impact of computer technology and the ability to manufacture essentially monodisperse polymer microspheres with well controlled properties (such as magnetic moment, charge, size, porosity and density) is illustrated.