Conference summary — lattice gauge theory and heavy-ion collisions

Abstract

This conference summary consists of three parts. First, a primer, in the form of questions and answers, on lattice gauge theory is presented to familiarize nuclear physicists and experimentalists involved with heavy-ion collisions with the basics of this field. Second, the contributions to the conference on the thermodynamics of gauge fields, computer simulation at non-zero chemical potential and the inclusion of dynamical massless quarks into lattice gauge calculations, are reviewed. And third, the lack of adequate computer facilities needed to improve the present generation of calculations is discussed and a proposal for a Center for Heavy-Ion Simulations is sketched to solve the dilemma.