Super problems for supercomputers

This article discusses the ways in which simulations performed on high-speed computers combined with graphics are replacing experiments. Supercomputers ranging from the large, general-purpose Cray-1 and the CYBER 205 to machines designed for a specific type of calculation, are becoming essential research tools in many fields of science and engineering. Topics considered include crystal growth, aerodynamic design, molecular seismology, computer graphics, membrane design, quantum mechanical calculations, Soviet ''nuclear winter'' maps (modeling climate in a post-nuclear-war environment), and estimating nuclear forest fires. It is pointed out that the $15 million required to buy and support one supercomputer has limited its use in industry and universities.