ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Hartree–Fock

Hartree-Fock is a really smart technique used by scientists to figure out what atoms and molecules look like and how they behave. It's like playing a game of "guess who" with lots of really tiny pieces.

Every atom has a central part called the "nucleus" and little things called "electrons" going around it. In Hartree-Fock, scientists try to figure out how these electrons move around the nucleus by using complicated math equations.

The equations try to find the best way for the electrons to get comfortable and stay happy around the nucleus. This is called the "ground state." It's like finding the perfect spot for your favorite toys in your room!.

Hartree-Fock also helps scientists to predict how atoms and molecules will act together. By using all the math equations, they can see how the electrons in one atom will interact with the electrons in another atom.

It may all sound pretty complicated, but scientists use Hartree-Fock to make some really cool discoveries about the world around us!