PHY 517

 

Computational Physics

 

    CRN 22020614 (Dow 109)

 

     General Information and Grading Policies

 

Fall 2007

Instructor: Dr. Jan Fiala

222 Dow, 774-3336, fiala1j@cmich.edu

Class Times:  M W F  09:00 AM - 09:50 AM

Office hours: by appointment.

Text:  An Introduction to Computer Simulation Methods: Applications to Physical Systems, 3rd ed., Harvey Gould, Jan Tobochnik, and Wolfgang Christian, Addison-Wesley (2006), ISBN: 0-8053-7758-1.

Overview: PHY 517 is an introductory course on the computer simulation of physical systems. The goals of the course are to introduce the methods of computer simulation, gain a better intuitive understanding of basic concepts in physics, learn object oriented programming, learn how computer simulation is changing the nature of physics and related disciplines, and become familiar with other skills such as writing lab reports.

The course is project oriented so that students can proceed at their own pace depending on their background and interests. The primary programming language of the course is Java. During the first part of the course, we will discuss some of the main applications of computer simulations including planetary motion, chaos and nonlinear systems, molecular dynamics, random systems, fractal phenomena, and applications of Monte Carlo methods to thermal systems. Students will choose a final project that can range from economics to opinion formation as well as the usual topics in physics and related sciences.

Structure of course: The discussions will introduce the physical system of interest and the corresponding model, suggest algorithms and programming strategy, and present methods for analyzing the results. Discussions of programming will usually take place in the laboratory.

The overall goal is to lead students to conceptualize a physical system, develop a computer experiment, and analyze and explain the data that they generate. The premise is that this process will lead students to a greater intuitive understanding of the system of interest as well as an understanding of the methods of computer simulation.

Special Requirements of the Course: Students will use computers, including those in the department computer laboratory, to carry out assignments.

Grades: Grades will be based on the following (in approximate order of importance).

  • Laboratory reports on assignments due at regular intervals. A total of approximately 7-8 reports will be due throughout the semester.
  • A research or special project report of the student's choice due by the last day of finals.
  • Class participation, initiative, and attendance.
  • A weekly email summary of your own progress and conceptual difficulties including a log of how your time was spent.
  • Several quizzes given throughout the semester.
  • Collaborative work. Scientists normally work in groups and social interactions are critical. Most good ideas grow out of discussions with colleagues. You are encouraged to work with others as much as possible. Study together, help others to get over confusions and ask each other questions. Teach each other! But turn in your own reports and list your collaborators, just as researchers cite collaborators in their papers.

Course Objectives:

  • Learn Java and object oriented programming concepts.
  • Learn how to use the computer as a scientific workstation, including learning Eclipse, LaTeX, and data analysis.
  • Learn to develop programs or adapt existing code to solve problems in physics
  • Learn how to write laboratory reports.

 

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