Molecular Dynamics vs Rigid Body Dynamics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the similarities and differences between molecular dynamics (MD) and rigid body dynamics (RBD), particularly in the context of simulating molecular interactions. Participants consider the feasibility of using RBD software to perform MD simulations and the necessary assumptions or modifications required for such an approach.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the differences and similarities between MD and RBD, asking if RBD software could be adapted for MD simulations and what modifications would be necessary.
  • Another participant suggests that MD can be adapted to simulate molecules as spheres connected by rods, referencing a specific resource for further exploration.
  • Concerns are raised about the rigidity of bond angles in molecular structures, noting that rotations are permitted in certain molecules, which may complicate the simulation.
  • There is a mention of the coriolis effect in molecular rotation, indicating that some dynamics may translate well from RBD to MD, with a reference to a quantum chemistry text.
  • A participant expresses a desire to simulate various molecular effects, including vibrations and rotations, while also indicating a lack of familiarity with free software options for MD simulations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to simulate MD using RBD software, and multiple competing views regarding the feasibility and necessary modifications remain present.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the limitations of treating molecular bonds as rigid and the implications of allowing rotations, which may affect the accuracy of simulations. There is also an acknowledgment of the need for specific software tools tailored for MD.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for researchers or students interested in computational modeling in chemistry and physics, particularly those exploring simulation techniques for molecular dynamics and rigid body dynamics.

alpha_wolf
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How different/similar is molecular dynamics from rigid body dynamics? Could I use RBD software such as ODE to simulate MD? What assumptions/modifications would I need to make for this to work (e.g. treat atoms as rigid spheres connected through some special type of joints)?
 
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If all you want to do is simulate molecules as spheres connected together by rods (I assume that's what you are thinking about) then there are some clever ways to get MD alone to do it. I think it's covered in D C Rapaport's "The Art of Molecular Dynamics Simulation".

Matt
 
Remember, bond angles are not perfectly "rigid". And rotations are often allowed in molecules lacking a large steric asymmetry.
 
I think many of the effects translate fairly well. Consider the coriolis effect in regards to molecular rotation, such as CO2. (Atkins discusses this phenomenon in his book on quantum chemistry.)
 
Gokul43201 said:
Remember, bond angles are not perfectly "rigid". And rotations are often allowed in molecules lacking a large steric asymmetry.
Yes, I know. Generally, I want to simulate all the major effects such as vibrations, rotations, etc. The reason I was asking about similarity to RBD, is because I am not familiar with any free software that is specifically designed for MD simulation. Come to think of it, I should do a search.
 

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