640-364 Computational Physics

Physics 640-321 or 640-341; mathematics 620-231 or 620-233; and mathematics 620-232 or 620-234.

This subject will introduce students to the use of computational techniques in the investigation of a wide class of problems in physics. Using professional computing tools, students will learn programming and a range of numerical methods commonly used in physics research and apply these techniques to the investigation of physical systems through the completion of projects.

No prior computing experience is necessary.

Students completing this subject will be able to:

• explain the application of a variety of computational techniques including differencing, root finding, quadrature, ordinary and partial differential equations, matrix eigenvalue problems, Monte Carlo methods and fast Fourier transforms to physical problems; and

• apply these methods to a range of physical situations

In addition, students will enhance their ability to:

• participate effectively as part of a group; and

• plan effective work schedules and manage their time to meet the deadlines for submission of assessable work.

Four projects will be based on model problems in physics: molecular vibrations, stellar structure, quantum spin systems, large-scale magnetic systems. Students will also complete a research style project based on one of a choice of topics from the research groups within the School of Physics, including universality in the Ising model, Fourier analysis and computer-aided tomography (CAT), many electron atoms, hydrodynamics, interaction of radiation with matter, gravitational lensing by point masses, atom optics.

Five computer-based projects during the semester totalling to an equivalent of no more than 8000 words (not including program listings and diagrams) (100%).

• R H Landau and M J Páez, Computational Physics: Problem Solving with Computers. Wiley.