ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Local density approximation

Okay kiddo, let me explain the "local density approximation" (LDA) to you in a way that is easy to understand.

You know how when you look at a group of things, some things are closer together than others? For example, if you have a pile of toys, some toys might be right next to each other, while others are further apart.

Scientists who study atoms and molecules use LDA to help them understand how they are arranged in space. They imagine that the atoms or molecules are like those toys, and they think about how close or far apart they are from each other.

But it's not just about distance. They are also interested in how many atoms or molecules are in a certain area, or in other words, their density.

The scientists use mathematical equations to calculate the density, and then they use that information to make predictions about how the atoms or molecules will behave in certain situations.

So, in summary, LDA is a way for scientists to better understand the arrangement of atoms or molecules by looking at their density and distance from each other. It's like sorting and grouping your toys, but on a much smaller and more complicated scale.