The Early Years of Quantum Monte Carlo: the Ground State
Michel Mareschal
TL;DR
This paper reviews the historical development of Quantum Monte Carlo methods for solving quantum many-body problems, highlighting key milestones from post-war efforts to the 1980s electron gas calculations.
Contribution
It provides a comprehensive historical overview of Quantum Monte Carlo methods, including personal insights from an interview with David Ceperley, emphasizing their evolution and significance.
Findings
Early Monte Carlo methods laid groundwork for quantum many-body solutions
Ceperley's electron gas calculations marked a milestone in the field
Historical insights enhance understanding of Quantum Monte Carlo development
Abstract
The history of the development of Monte Carlo methods to solve the many-body problem in quantum mechanics is presented. The survey starts with the early attempts with the first available computers just after the war and extends until the years 80s with the celebrated calculation of the electron gas by Ceperley and Alder. Usage is made of an interview of David Ceperley by the author.
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