Sample interview questions: How do you approach the task of modeling and simulating the formation of cosmic structure?
Sample answer:
Approaching the Task of Simulating the Evolution of Structure in the Cosmogony
Computational Methodology:
- Utilize high-fiducial cosmological models derived from the latest experimental observations (e.g., Planck, WMAP).
- Employ state-of-the-art hydrodynamic simulation tools (e.g., Enzo, Illustris, EAGLE), incorporating non-linear gravitational effects, hydrodynamics, and relevant physical processes (e.g., star formation, feedback).
- Utilize massive computing resources (e.g., supercomputers) capable of resolving cosmic structure formation on both large (Gpc) and small (Mpc) scales.
Initial Conditions:
- Implement Gaussian random fields or N-body techniques to generate initial density perturbations consistent with the input cosmology.
- Introduce seed perturbations at various scales to represent the seeds of cosmic structure growth.
- Use hierarchical models to connect large-scale perturbations to small-scale perturbations.
Physical Processes:
- Incorporate gas dynamics, gravity, dark matter, and relevant thermal effects.
- Model star formation using appropriate prescriptions based on density, temperature, and gas pressure.
- Include feedback mechanisms (e.g., supernovae, AGN) to shape the properties of galaxies and galaxy groups.
Observational Data Comparison:
- Calibrate simulation parameters against a rang… Read full answer