PATH-INTEGRAL SIMULATIONS OF ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR-SYSTEMS

The path integral picture of the statistical mechanics of quantum many -body systems is presented from the point of view of developing simula tion algorithms. Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics techniques for sys tems of distinguishable quantum particles, bosons and fermions are rev iewed. Path integral simulations of atomic liquids and solids, quantum clusters and solvated electrons are described and the usefulness of s uch techniques for understanding phenomena such as orientational trans itions, surface adsorption and rates of quantum processes is discussed .