SPRING 2009 COURSE: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTATIONAL MATH AND PHYSICS APAM E1601

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTATIONAL MATH AND PHYSICS
Wednesdays 6:50-9:20pm
Professor Mike Mauel (mem4@columbia.edu)
Call number: 17002
Website: http://www.apam.columbia.edu/courses/ap1601y

Introduction to computational methods in applied mathematics and physics: Students develop solutions in a small number of subject areas to acquire a first taste in the practical use of computers in solving mathematics and physics problems.

APAM1601 does not require prior programming experience (but prior computer experience and talent are helpful.) Topics change from year-to-year, and only a limited number of topics (typically four per term) are selected for discussion and investigation. Topics range from classical and modern physics and applied mathematics, but the course is not meant to cover these areas broadly. Instead, each topic will be self-contained and limited in scope. We try to make topics interesting and absorbing, and they will amplify and expand on a student's knowledge acquired during your first year of physics and mathematics course work.

The goal of this course is to provide some depth in select topics instead of providing a general (but shallow) overview of an entire subject area.

Examples include elementary interpolation of functions, solution of nonlinear algebraic equations, curve-fitting and hypothesis testing, wave propagation, fluid motion, gravitational and celestial mechanics, chaotic dynamics. (APAM1601 is usually taught by a team of two professors, an applied physicist and an applied mathematician.)