Sampling along reaction coordinates with the Wang-Landau method

The multiple range random walk algorithm recently proposed by Wang and Landau [2001, Phys. Rev. Lett., 86, 2050] is adapted to the computation of free energy profiles for molecular systems along reaction coordinates. More generally, we show how to extract partial averages in various statistical ensembles without invoking simulations with constraints, biasing potentials or unknown parameters. The method is illustrated on a model 10-dimensional potential energy surface, for which analytical results are obtained. It is then applied to the potential of mean force associated with the dihedral angle of the butane molecule in the gas phase and in carbon tetrachloride solvent. Finally, isomerization in a small rocksalt cluster, (NaF)(4), is investigated in the microcanonical ensemble, and the results are compared to those of parallel tempering Monte Carlo.