Benchmarks for the Point Kinetics Equations

A new numerical algorithm for the solution of the Point Kinetics Equations, whose accurate solution has been sought for over 60 years. The method couples the simplest of finite difference methods, a backward Euler, with Richardsons extrapolation, also called acceleration. From this coupling, a series of benchmarks have emerged. These include cases from the literature as well as several new ones. The novelty of this presentation lies in the breadth of insertions considered, covering both prescribed and feedback reactivities, and the extreme eight to nine-digit accuracy achievable. The benchmarks presented are to provide guidance to those who wish to develop further improvements.