From: V. Praveen Guddeti

Subject: Random function.

Date: 2003-5-1 18:34


The random function uses a *random-state* data structure. When the random
function is called it performs a side effect on this data structure.

I have a function that uses this random function. This function is called
many times, and each time it uses the random function to generate a set
of random numbers. I want each set of random numbers to be independent of
the previously generated set of random numbers. I do not make use of the
*random-state* data structure in my code.

My questions are:
	Are my set of random numbers independent of the previously
generated set of random numbers?
	Does the *random-state* data structure need to be initialized or
something like that?
	What actually is the purpose and effect of the *random-state* data
structure on the LISP environment?

Thank you.

--Praveen.