  We present the first detailed hydrodynamic simulation of a superoutburst to
incorporate the full tidal potential of a binary system. A two-dimensional
smoothed particle hydrodynamics code is used to simulate a superoutburst in a
binary with the parameters of the SU UMa system Z Chamaeleontis. The simulated
light curves shows all the features observed in such systems. Analysis of the
mass flux through the disc and the growth rate of the superhumps and disc
eccentricity show that the superoutburst-superhump phenomenon is a direct
result of tidal instability. No enhanced mass transfer from the secondary is
required to initiate or sustain these phenomena. Comparisons of superoutbursts
with normal outbursts are made and we show that the model can be reconciled
with the behavior of U Geminorum type dwarf novae, which show no
superoutbursts.
