Global Error Control in the Runge-Kutta Solution of a Hamiltonian System using the RKQ Algorithm

Abstract

We study the effect of global error control in the numerical solution of Hamiltonian systems. In particular, we apply the RKQ algorithm in the numerical solution of a Hamiltonian system. This algorithm is designed to provide stepwise control of both local and global error. A test problem demonstrates the error control features of RKQ. Good results are obtained, despite the fact that explicit Runge-Kutta methods have been used in RKQ, rather than symplectic Runge-Kutta methods. This simply emphasizes the value of stepwise global error control, as per the RKQ algorithm.