The standard approach for integrating the multidimensional Vlasov equation using grid based, conservative schemes is based on a time splitting approach. Here, we show that although the truncation error is of second order, time splitting can introduce systematic heating of the plasma. We introduce a backsubstitution method, which not only avoids this deficiency but also is computationally less expensive. The general approach is demonstrated in conjunction with Boris' scheme for evaluating the characteristics.
['Holger Schmitz', 'Rainer Grauer']
Comparison of time splitting and backsubstitution methods for integrating Vlasov's equation with magnetic fields