Studying at York
Computational Laboratory - PHY00011I
- Department: Physics
- Credit value: 20 credits
- Credit level: I
- Academic year of delivery: 2022-23
Related modules
Pre-requisite modules
Co-requisite modules
- None
Prohibited combinations
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Autumn Term 2022-23 to Spring 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.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 25 |
| Essay/coursework | 25 |
| Practical | 50 |
Special assessment rules
Non-compensatable
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 50 |
| Practical | 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