Unit information: Introduction to Computational Physics in 2018/19

Unit name	Introduction to Computational Physics
Unit code	PHYS30009
Credit points	10
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Dr. Hanna
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Physics
Faculty	Faculty of Science

Description including Unit Aims

The aim of this course is to develop students understanding of numerical techniques, and gain experience in programming in a computer language. Students will gain experience of using computers to solve physics problems and also develop report writing and analysis skills.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to

• Write simple computer code using the Python programming language
• Develop mathematical algorithms in Python
• Apply algorithms to solve Physical problems
• Concisely describe the purpose and function of computer code.

Teaching Information

• Lectures
• Drop in workshops

Assessment Information

Formative assessment is available through the drop in sessions and through the graded summative exercises: short exercises, each consisting of the code plus a brief outline of the methodology and presentation of the results.

Reading and References

“Numerical Recipes” – Press et al. ISBN: 9780521880688

“An introduction to Computer simulation methods” – Gould, Tobochnik, Christian (3rd ed).ISBN-13: 978-0805377583

“An Introduction to Computational Physics” – Pang.978-1840858839