How Do Monte Carlo Methods Compare to Other Simulation Techniques?
Monte Carlo methods differ from other simulation techniques like finite element analysis (FEA) and molecular dynamics simulations in several ways. While FEA focuses on deterministically solving differential equations over a defined domain, Monte Carlo methods use statistical sampling to explore a wide range of possible outcomes. Molecular dynamics, on the other hand, tracks the time evolution of particles, which can be computationally intensive for large systems. Monte Carlo methods are often preferred when the focus is on understanding the statistical properties of a system rather than its temporal evolution.
