Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Scientific computation is about constructing theoretical and mathematical models of physical systems, adapting efficient numerical techniques, and using modern computers to solve real-world scientific problems. This unit introduces the main computational techniques used in solving practical problems in physics and engineering. It is hands-on and designed to help students learn by doing, thus a significant fraction of students' time is spent actually programming specific physical problems. The unit is required for students with specialisation in computational physics, but it is also open to students in other science or engineering subjects.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Honours option in Physics [Bachelor of Science (Honours)]
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) explain the modern computer environment of UNIX workstations and have a working knowledge of the programming language Fortran or Python; (2) interpret numerical differentiation and integration, ordinary and partial differential equations, Fourier transforms, linear algebra and eigensystems, Monte Carlo simulation, optimisation, variational methods; and (3) apply numerical techniques commonly used to solve problems in science and engineering.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) assignments; (2) oral presentation; and (3) final project report. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Jingbo Wang
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in in the
HON-GEOPH Geophysics [Honours]
or the HON-PHYSC Physics [Honours]
or the CM015 Bachelor of Science [Frontier Physics] and Master of Physics
or the 53560 Master of Physics
and
CITS1401 Computational Thinking with Python
or CITX1401 Computational Thinking with Python
and
completion of the core units in the Physics major or equivalent
or
Course Enrolment in the
65550 Master of Quantum Technology and Computing and ( CITS1401 Computational Thinking with Python
or CITX1401 Computational Thinking with Python
and
MATH1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
or MATX1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
and PHYS2001 Quantum Physics and Electromagnetism
and PHYS3001 Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Physics )
or 73660 Master of Medical Physics
Advisable prior study
Programming in Python, Fortran
or C
Contact hours
Lectures: 3 x 45 minutes per week
Practical Classes: 1 x 45 minutes per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.