Course overview
This hands-on course provides an introduction to computational methods in solving problems in physics. It teaches programming tactics, numerical methods and their implementation, together with methods of linear algebra. These computational methods are applied to problems in physics, including the modelling of classical physical systems to quantum systems, as well as to data analysis such as linear and nonlinear fits to data sets. Applications of high performance computing are included where possible, such as an introduction to parallel computing and also to visualization techniques.
Course learning outcomes
- Identify modern programming methods
- Describe the capabilities and limitations of computational methods in physics
- Identify and describe the characteristics of various numerical methods
- Establish tactics for encapsulating and hiding complexity
- Independently program computers using leading-edge tools
- Formulate and solve computationally a selection of problems in physics
- Use the tools, methodologies, language and conventions of physics to test and communicate ideas and explanations
- Resolve the appropriate paradigm for addressing current computational physics challenges.