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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

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
April 3 See wiki 20.1: Introduction to Python Make a document using TeX (+ unix and useful python) April 11 or 14
April 10 See wiki 20.2: Introduction to Numerical Techniques April 18 or 21
April 17 See wiki 20.3: Numerical Techniques (cont): Differential Equations May 2 or 5
May 1 See wiki 20.4: Unix Tools: Shell, Version Control, Makefiles, Python Installations May 16 or 19
May 15 See wiki 20.5: Introduction to Symbolic Computing in Mathematica May 23 or 26
May 22 See wiki 20.6: Numerical Computation in Mathematica May 30 or June 2
May 29 See wiki 20.7: Encryption June 6 or 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: Tom Prince 290-17, x6605 prince{at}caltech{dot}edu
Teaching Assistant: Maria (Masha) Okounkova mookounk{at}caltech{dot}edu
Teaching Assistant: Jason Pollack jpollack{at}caltech{dot}edu

Sections

Tuesday 1-4 PM Jason Pollack
Friday 1-4 PM Maria (Masha) Okounkova

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