Scattering of Star Clusters: Computational Methods and Analysis

We report on investigations which we have carried out on the scattering of small globular clusters. We discuss the relevant theory, and the computational and analytical methods which we have developed. Initial results are presented for 26 simulations each of the collision of two King-model clusters with N = 2048 stars and Psi _0 = 6, at two different relative speeds and with varying impact parameters. TREECODE was used as the particle pusher. Effects of the transfer of energy and angular momentum from the collision into the internal motions of the clusters are discussed.