We present a detailed description of the generalized geometric cluster
algorithm for the efficient simulation of continuum fluids. The connection with
well-known cluster algorithms for lattice spin models is discussed, and an
explicit full cluster decomposition is derived for a particle configuration in
a fluid. We investigate a number of basic properties of the geometric cluster
algorithm, including the dependence of the cluster-size distribution on density
and temperature. Practical aspects of its implementation and possible
extensions are discussed. The capabilities and efficiency of our approach are
illustrated by means of two example studies.Comment: Accepted for publication in Phys. Rev. E. Follow-up to
cond-mat/041274