A Guide to Monte Carlo Simulations in Statistical Physics - Tapa dura

'... the most complete book on Monte Carlo simulations that I have ever read, written by two of the field's most well-respected authorities. The book contains a detailed description of the different methods and techniques illustrated with clear and concrete examples, making it an invaluable reference of anyone - from novices to experts - interested in Monte Carlo simulations. ... The book's presentation is exceptionally clear, making for entertaining reading without sacrificing mathematical rigor. ... the book is invaluable for its detailed presentations of finite size effects, ergodicity, critical slowing down, and the difficulties involved in off-lattice methods, to name just a few example topics. ... In recent years, my research interests have made extensive use of molecular dynamics simulations, but reading this book has inspired several applications that will make use of Monte Carlo Methods. I'm sure this inspiration will pass on to anyone else reading this book.' Computing in Science and Engineering

This book deals with all aspects of Monte Carlo simulation of complex physical systems encountered in condensed-matter physics and statistical mechanics as well as in related fields, for example polymer science and lattice gauge theory. After briefly recalling essential background in statistical mechanics and probability theory, the authors give a succinct overview of simple sampling methods. The next several chapters develop the importance sampling method. The concepts behind the various simulation algorithms are explained. The fact that simulations deal with small systems is emphasized. Other chapters also provide introductions to quantum Monte Carlo methods, aspects of simulations of growth phenomena and other systems far from equilibrium, and the Monte Carlo Renormalization Group approach to critical phenomena. Throughout the book there are many applications, examples, and exercises to help the reader in a thorough study of this book; furthermore, up-to-date references to more specialized literature are also provided.