The High Energy Monte Carlo Grand Challenge: Simulating Quarks and Gluons

Quantum chromodynamics, the theory of the interaction of quarks and gluons, can be simulated on modern su percomputers. Using the Hybrid algorithm on a 124 spacetime lattice, the High Energy Monte Carlo Grand Challenge (HEMCGC) group has recently performed the most realistic calculation of the hadronic spectrum to date. The inclusion of the effects of light virtual quark antiquark pairs leads to a significant improvement over previous work. Achievement of these results required innovative work in basic theoretical physics, algorithm design, and software development. The next decade of progress in this challenging field will require machines several orders of magnitude more capable than today's supercomputers.