Download Hot Coco Vol. 2 No. 1 - June 1984 - TRS

TUTORIAL
BY PHILIP MCLAUGHLIN
Use small computers to solve mainframe-sized
problems. Continue theory study with this tutorial.
L
ast month, in Part I of this article,
you explored lattice structures
and Monte Carlo methods as they are
used in the Basic program, Stars. I con­
tinue to look at these methods in terms
of using small computers for big prob­
lems, and the sort of mathematics and
program structures most suitable.
Lattice-type programs are good for
simulating miniature universes that you
can study on the monitor screen. You
will also find some suggested experi-
ments and modifications to Stars that
test the behavior or dynamics of these
hypothetical worlds. Before these con­
siderations, however, you must look at
the following.
Sources of Error
Higher-level languages such as Basic
usually include floating-point arith­
metic routines indispensable for day-to­
day use of the computer, or quick,
rough calculation. Unless, however,
HOT CoCo
June 1984
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