Unit information: Computational Physics 301 in 2020/21

Unit name	Computational Physics 301
Unit code	PHYS38012
Credit points	10
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Dr. Jim Brooke
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Physics
Faculty	Faculty of Science

Description including Unit Aims

This unit builds on computational physics from levels C/4 and I/5. The course introduces techniques for evaluation, differentiation, integration and solution of equations, and then applies this to the study of a variety of realistic physical systems. Self paced programming exercises of increasing complexity, with hands-on guidance from demonstrators.

This is a course on solving scientific problems using computers. Students will learn how to use computational methods in a scientific computing environment to solve physics problems, what the limitations of computers are and how to overcome or avoid these limitations.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students should be able to:

• choose appropriate algorithms to solve scientific and mathematical problems

• write computer programs to implement the algorithms and solve the problems

• understand the limitations and possible errors in the solutions

• work in a scientific computing environment.

Teaching Information

The unit will be taught through a combination of

• asynchronous online materials, including narrated presentations and worked examples
• synchronous group problems classes, workshops, tutorials and/or office hours
• asynchronous directed individual formative exercises and other exercises
• guided, structured reading

Assessment Information

Coursework (100%) : - 3 x coding assignments (15% each) - One 4 week assignment, giving 55% of the total mark.

Reading and References

Numerical Recipes, 3rd Edition (Press et al)