Three-body Scattering
A simulation of an interaction between three stars
Stars 1 and 2 are initially in a bound orbit; star 3 approaches from infinity.
To start the simulation we must set (i) the velocity at infinity and impact parameter of the outer orbit, (ii) the semi-major axis and eccentricity of the inner orbit, and (iii) all stellar masses and radii.
All other orbital parameters are chosen at random. To get a really random run, don't set the random seed. Otherwise, specify a seed in the box below to initialize the pseudo-random sequence.
Choosing a low velocity at infinity may result in a resonance interaction, which can be quite lengthy, so be patient, especially if the "animations" option is selected.
Animations are now working! Warning: they may stress your browser!
--> To work in nondimensional units, click here.
Set stellar parameters: