Physical interrelation between Fokker-Planck and random walk models with application to Coulomb interactions

A model of the random walk is formulated to allow a simple computing procedure to replace the difficult problem of solution of the Fokker-Planck equation. The step sizes and probabilities of taking steps in the various directions are expressed in terms of Fokker-Planck coefficients. Application is made to many particle systems with Coulomb interactions. The relaxation of a highly peaked velocity distribution of particles to equilibrium conditions is illustrated. Part I of a thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of Doctor of Philosophy requirements at Colorado State University.