PHYS 3550 — Syllabus

Course Description

PHYS 3550 – Computational Physics I: The class begins with a targeted, intense 4-week course in the Python language, heavily focused on NumPy. It then introduces methods for solving difficult mathematical problems that arise in physics and astronomy. This requires combining applied mathematics with the practical use of numerical algorithms and computers. We begin with assorted tools of the trade and simple problems in root finding, interpolation, and linear and nonlinear curve fitting, then progress toward more challenging topics: solving non-linear equations, complex numbers, applications of the Taylor series, numerical differentiation, numerical integration, and solving first-order differential equations in physics problems. Experience with a programming language such as Python, MATLAB, R, IDL, Julia, Fortran, or C++ is useful but not required — all classwork is done in Python.

For physics majors: this course is required for all physics majors, but anyone with an interest in computational physics can take it, provided they have met the prerequisites and corequisite.

Prerequisites

MATH 2215 and PHYS 2212K with a C or higher. Corequisite: MATH 2641.

Teaching Method

The course is delivered in a computer classroom, in lecture format, discussing concepts, procedures, and example problems. Students are required to attend class and complete in-class computing activities in a group setting. The assessment system consists of in-class quizzes, homework, in-class tests, and a final computing project.

Required Material

1. Computer access — needed for iCollege access, programming homework, and lecture videos.
2. A folder or composition book to take notes and do analytical work and example problems.

Free textbooks

• Linge and Langtangen, Programming for Computations — Python: A Gentle Introduction to Numerical Simulations with Python 3.6 — link.springer.com (examples and problems from physics and engineering)
• Free access from UC Berkeley: pythonnumericalmethods.berkeley.edu — Python Programming and Numerical Methods: A Guide for Engineers and Scientists by Qingkai Kong, Timmy Siauw, and Alexandre Bayen (Elsevier)

Reference book: Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences, Mary L. Boas, 3rd Edition.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Convert a physics or astronomy problem into a computational problem.
• Computationally solve physics and astronomy problems using numerical methods in Python.
• Visualize answers to problems in physics and astronomy using Python visualization tools.
• Check the correctness of a computational solution using limits where analytical solutions are possible.
• Evaluate the error introduced by a mathematical approximation and by a numerical method.
• Identify numerical instabilities and know how to avoid them.
• Apply critical thinking skills through analytical and computational methods to solve problems.
• Develop effective collaborative skills for problem-solving.
• Enhance scientific communication skills.

Core IMPACTS

This is not a Core IMPACTS course.

Important Dates

• Last day to withdraw: Wednesday, October 8
• Final project report due: on or before December 12, with a 15-minute presentation during the last two days of class

Grading Policy

Class participation and group work: each week, you will work as a group to complete tutorials during class.

Homework: individual homework is assigned, except for the last two weeks and the two test weeks.

Quizzes: about 10 in-class quizzes; the lowest two are dropped.

Tests: two tests. Concept-based computational questions and analytical work are done in class; the computing portion is given as take-home.

Final exam: given as a class project. You partner with another student on a project assigned by the instructor, write a project report (due on or before December 12), and give a 15-minute presentation during the last two days of class.

Component	Weight
Test 1	15%
Test 2	20%
Final exam project (group, two students)	25%
Homework & in-class assignments	30%
Quizzes	10%
Class attendance bonus	5%

Grade breakpoints

Grade	+	(no suffix)	−
A	97–100	93–96	90–92
B	87–89	83–86	80–82
C	77–79	73–76	70–72
D	67–69	63–66	60–62
F		0–59

Attendance Policy

You are strongly encouraged to attend all classes. Consistent attendance not only supports your understanding of physics but can also earn you a 5% bonus toward your final grade. To receive the full bonus, you may miss no more than two class sessions; students who miss more than six classes are not eligible for the attendance bonus. You must arrive on time and stay for the entire class period to receive credit for that day.

This bonus is a reward, not a penalty system — no distinction is made between excused and unexcused absences for bonus eligibility. However, to be considered for an excused absence for other course-related purposes, contact the instructor either before the missed class or within 24 hours after. Students are responsible for all material covered and announcements made during class, regardless of attendance. Longer absences (more than three straight class days) must be communicated through the Dean of Students to receive an excused absence. Selected video lectures, announcements, and material are always available on iCollege. The instructor is also available during office hours and by appointment outside class hours.

Academic Integrity Statement

Academic dishonesty is a serious violation of the trust upon which the success of our University depends. Cheating and plagiarism can not only result in a poor grade and penalties from the University, but can cause your mentors and peers to mistrust you and keep you from developing the habits of a successful student and future professional. The University’s policy on academic honesty is published in the Student Handbook and includes dishonest actions such as cheating, plagiarism, and facilitating academic dishonesty. Violations of this policy will result in a grade of “F” for the assignment or the course. If you have questions about the policy, or are unsure whether something counts as academic dishonesty, come to office hours to discuss it.

Accommodations

Students who wish to request an accommodation for a documented disability may do so by registering with the Access and Accommodation Center. Students may only be accommodated upon issuance by the Access and Accommodation Center of a signed Accommodation Plan, and are responsible for providing a copy of that plan to instructors of all classes in which accommodations are sought.