Binary-single star scattering. I - Numerical experiments for equal masses

A first report is presented regarding an extensive project which is designed to provide a representative coverage of binary-single star scattering, and at least an exploration of binary-binary scattering. It is the aim of the project to present cross sections and reaction rates which are obtained by numerical orbit integration from initial conditions determined by Monte Carlo techniques. The main difference between the current project and previous work is related to the large amount of computer time available. In this connection, it has already been possible to conduct a million orbit calculations. The results of these calculations are analyzed in this report. A framework of binary-single star scattering is described for the most general case. Data are provided for the case where all stars have equal masses.