Development of a database approach for analyzing a large dataset of simulated particle trajectories

A database method is developed for analyzing a very large dataset of simulated particle trajectories within a long aspect-ratio magnetic field structure called a Taylor state. Six hundred thousand protons are launched from a random distribution of velocities, directions, and positions within a static magnetic field computed from the differential equation curl B = lambda B in a long-aspect ratio cylindrical boundary using the eigensolver code PSI-Tet. The behavior and transport of these particle can be studied by seeking patterns among initial conditions and their ultimate trajectories. The relational organization of the dataset allows access to a lot of information through an inexpensive query search, specifically using a SQL database.

This work is supported by the NSF-DOE Partnership in Basic Plasma and by an NSF CAREER Award.