Overview

This course provides a basic understanding of computer modeling in physics. Topics include basics of python programming language; scientific plotting; numerical evaluation of integrals; numerical solution of ordinary and partial differential equations; visual programming; basics of high performance and parallel computing; basics of graphics processing unit programming.

Materials

Recommended Text
Computational Physics, Mark Newman, 2012. ISBN-13: 978-1480145511.

Amazon Link

Grading Scheme

40%       Home Work
30%       Midterm Exam
30%        Final Project

Final Project

Students will choose a problem from any area in physics that they can solve using the numerical techniques learned in the course. The problem should be complex enough that solving it requires a significant amount of effort. The code developed should be able to interact with an end user so that they can get a solution to the problem without much effort.
Students will present their software project in a final presentation during the final week of class. The presentation should explain the problem, how it was solved numerically and demonstrate use of the code. Choices about which numerical techniques were used should be clearly explained.

Technology Statement

Computers will be used during class by students to work on exercises. Students should bring laptops to all class meetings. They will need to have python set up on their laptop.