From Newton to Cellular Automata

TL;DR

This paper explores the conceptual progression from classical mechanics to cellular automata, highlighting why physicists prefer simplified models over direct numerical solutions of fundamental equations.

Contribution

It provides a conceptual framework connecting classical physics to cellular automata, emphasizing the rationale behind using simplified models in physics research.

Findings

Physicists favor simplified models over complex numerical integration.

Cellular automata can be viewed as abstract systems derived from classical mechanics.

The paper offers a logical pathway linking physics and automata theory.

Abstract

I outline a possible logical path from the formulation of physics of classical mechanics to "abstract" systems like cellular automata. The goal of this article is that of illustrating why physicists often study extremely simplified models, instead of just numerically integrating the fundamental equations of physics. This exposition is obviously only partial and based on my expertise and my interests.