Split-operator technique for propagating phase space functions: Exploring chaotic, dissipative and relativistic dynamics

We conduct a comprehensive analysis of the split-operator method for propagating phase space distribution functions in different scenarios of classical mechanics. A numerical method based on Fast Fourier Transform allows to propagate almost any sampled or exact localized initial state, as well as the direct calculation of current densities in phase space. In order to demonstrate the potential of the proposed numerical scheme some simulations involving chaotic, dissipative and relativistic dynamics are performed. In the conducted simulations, dynamical functions like autocorrelations as well as the detailed structures in phase space are discussed. We find that the split-operator technique demonstrates the effectiveness for studying time evolution of interacting one-dimensional classical systems.