Population synthesis is a method for numerical simulation of the population of objects with a complex evolution. This method is widely used in astrophysics. We consider its main applications to studying astronomical objects. Examples of modeling evolution are given for populations of close binaries and isolated neutron stars. The application of the method to studying active galactic nuclei and the integral spectral characteristics of galaxies is briefly discussed. An extensive bibliography on all the topics covered is provided.

PACS: 97.10.−q, 97.60.Jd, 97.80.−d (all) DOI: 10.1070/PU2007v050n11ABEH006179 URL: https://ufn.ru/en/articles/2007/11/b/ 000253900700002 2-s2.0-40449120542 2007PhyU...50.1123P Citation: Popov S B, Prokhorov M E "Population synthesis in astrophysics" Phys. Usp. 50 1123–1146 (2007) BibTexBibNote ® (generic)BibNote ® (RIS) MedlineRefWorks PT Journal Article TI Population synthesis in astrophysics AU Popov S B FAU Popov SB AU Prokhorov M E FAU Prokhorov ME DP 10 Nov, 2007 TA Phys. Usp. VI 50 IP 11 PG 1123-1146 RX 10.1070/PU2007v050n11ABEH006179 URL https://ufn.ru/en/articles/2007/11/b/ SO Phys. Usp. 2007 Nov 10;50(11):1123-1146 Оригинал: Попов С Б, Прохоров М Е «Популяционный синтез в астрофизике» УФН 177 1179–1206 (2007); DOI: 10.3367/UFNr.0177.200711b.1179