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Physics 20: Introduction to Tools of Scientific Computing

Course Description

  • 6 units (0-6-0)
  • Prerequisites: CS 1 or equivalent experience with computers
  • Offered first, second and third terms
  • Ground rules, updated with more info on 10/3/18; check it out!

Topics covered

  • Introduction to tools for scientific computing. Introduction to python. Programming of numerical methods with applications to problems in classical mechanics. Numerical integration, root-finding, and numerical simulation of differential equations of motion. Use of Mathematica for numerical work. Unix tools including version control and makefiles.

Reading and assignments

Assignments and reading lists are posted here.

Due dates may be changed by TAs

Week of... Reading list Assignment Due date
1 October 2018 See wiki 20.1: Introduction to Python Oct 14
Oct 8 See wiki 20.2: Introduction to Numerical Techniques Oct 21
Oct 15 See wiki 20.3: Numerical Techniques (cont): Differential Equations Nov 4
Oct 29 See wiki 20.4: Unix Tools: Shell, Version Control, Makefiles, Python Installations Nov 18
Nov 12 See wiki 20.5: Introduction to Symbolic Computing in Mathematica Nov 25
Nov 19 See wiki 20.6: Numerical Computation in Mathematica Dec 6 or Nov 26
Nov 26 See wiki 20.7: Encryption Dec 9

All assignments are due by 11:59pm on due date unless otherwise specified

Resources

People

Lab Manager: Chris Mach 103-33, x2299 cmach{at}alice
Professor: Alan Weinstein 100-36, x2166 ajw{at}caltech{dot}edu
Teaching Assistant: Teddy Albertson tga{at}caltech{dot}edu
Teaching Assistant: Wendy Chen gcchen{at}caltech{dot}edu

Sections

Friday 1-4 PM Teddy Albertson
Tuesday 1-4 PM Wendy Chen

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