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(NS) Computational Laboratory I - PHY00019I

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  • Department: Physics
  • Module co-ordinator: Prof. Matt Probert
  • Credit value: 10 credits
  • Credit level: I
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23
    • See module specification for other years: 2021-22

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23

Module aims

Computational physics is the third way of studying physics and is in addition to (and complementary with) theoretical and experimental physics. Computer programs model the real world using theoretical ideas cast into mathematical form and then converted into an algorithm. This algorithm is expressed in a high level programming language, and this is then run on the computer. The analysis and development of the results is closely akin to experiment, in that input (independent) quantities may be varied and the change in the output (dependent) quantities are found. Hence a simulation is the representation of an individual experiment, and may be used to give a prediction of the results of that experiment, if the model is accurate. Such simulation may be considerably easier /quicker / cheaper to perform than the equivalent experiment, and may also yield fresh insight and understanding into the results of the experiment. That is why computational physics has become essential to many modern research fields. The techniques of computational physics embrace model design, numerical analysis, computer programming and experimentation. This laboratory is designed to help you to develop these essential skills.

Module learning outcomes

Demonstrate quality of record keeping

Write appropriate computer programs from a description of the core physics ideas and algorithms

Plan and execute computational experiments with such programs

Present your results in various graphical forms

Interpret and demonstrate critical assessment of your results

Test and verify the accuracy and correctness of a simulation

Demonstrate the effect of software and hardware limitations on program performance

Use appropriate computational tools to improve your scientific programming and effectiveness

Be able to communicate and present your laboratory work both informally through discussion and in the style of a leading scientific journal.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Formal Report		 N/A 50
Practical
Lab Notebook		 N/A 50

Special assessment rules

Non-compensatable

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Formal Report		 N/A 50
Practical
Lab Notebook		 N/A 50

Module feedback

Our policy on how you receive feedback for formative and summative purposes is contained in our Department Handbook.

Indicative reading

Laboratory scripts - You will be provided with lab scripts


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.