Numerical Loading of a Maxwellian Probability Distribution Function

A renormalization procedure for the numerical loading of a Maxwellian probability distribution function (PDF) is formulated. The procedure, which involves the solution of three coupled nonlinear equations, yields a numerically loaded PDF with improved properties for higher velocity moments. This method is particularly useful for low-noise particle-in-cell simulations with electron dynamics. PACS Nos.: 52.35.Py, 52.30.Jb, 52.55.Fa