An Introduction to Computational Physics

by Tao Pang

This advanced textbook provides an introduction to the basic methods of computational physics, as well as an overview of recent progress in several areas of scientific computing. The author presents many step-by-step examples of practical numerical methods, often with the relevant program listing. The first half of the book deals with basic computational tools and routines, covering differential equations, spectral analysis and matrix operations. Important concepts are illustrated by relevant examples at each stage. The author also discusses more advanced topics, such as Monte Carlo simulations, lattice gas methods, molecular dynamics and symbolic computing. The book includes many exercises, and it can be used as a textbook for senior undergraduate or first-year graduate courses on scientific computation. It will also be a useful reference for anyone involved in computational physics or related disciplines.

Genres: Physics, Programming

392 pages, Paperback

First published September 28, 1997