Physics 331 - Computational Physics
This course introduces the use of computational methods in the solutions of
Physics problems. It covers some of the most fundamental numerical
techniques, such as root finders, minimization algorithms and differential
equation integrators. These fundamental techniques will be combined to solve
complex problems such as optimization or boundary value problems.
Emphasis will be placed on common methods of casting Physics problems into
forms amenable to numerical solution, and for displaying numerical results.
Course Details
Lecture Plan (tentative)
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(9/2) Section 1 - Algorithms & Programs
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(9/9) Section 2.1 - Algebraic eqs. & bisection
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(9/16) Section 2.2 - General/Specific breakdown
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(9/23) Section 2.3 - Newton's Method. Arithmetic precision.
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(9/30) Section 3 - Vectors & Multi-dim. roots
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(10/7) Sections 4.1 & 4.2 - ODEs intro & Euler's method
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(10/14) Section 4.3 - Truncation errors & time step choice
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(10/21) Section 4.4 - 2nd order Runge-Kutta
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(10/28) Section 5.1 - More dimensions
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(11/4) Section 5.2 - Higher order ODEs
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(11/11) Section 5.3 - Driver programs
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(11/18) Graphing and visualization
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(12/2) Sections 6.1 & 6.2 - Eigenvalue problems - gen. &
analytic.
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(12/9) Section 6.3 - Eigenvalue problems - the shooting method.
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