N-body simulation
= N-body simulation
{c}
{title2=$N$}
An <N-body simulation> approximates a dynamical system by evolving $N$ interacting particles. In a collisionless <galaxy> calculation these particles sample a smooth <mass> distribution rather than represent individual physical <stars>. Their larger individual <masses> enhance artificial <two-body relaxation>; softening, <force> accuracy and convergence with particle number must be checked over the intended duration.