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Computational Physics a

Vak
2026-2027

Admission requirements

None.

Description

An important aspect of physics research is modeling: complex physical systems are simplified through a sequence of controlled approximations to a model that lends itself for computations, either analytic or by computer. In this course, the origin of a number of widely used models will be discussed. For instance, the liquid-gas transition of Argon can be studied by a Lennard-Jones system of particles. Insight into these models can be obtained through a number of ways, one of which is computer simulations. During this course, simulation methods of various models will be discussed in the lectures as well as in computer lab sessions.

The course contains a project on Molecular dynamics simulation of Argon atoms.

Course objectives

Upon completion of this course you will be able to:

  • write efficient and well-documented computer code and validate it

  • assess the pros and cons of various computational methods

  • investigate particular topics in computational physics and present the findings in scientifc reports and an oral presentation

Schedule

The timetables are available through My Timetable (see the button in the upper right corner).

Teaching method

See Brightspace

Assesment method

The students (working in pairs) produce a report including the code and an analysis of the results on the project.

The final grade will be determined as follows:

  • Project report (100%)

Resit, review & feedback

Examinations are held twice during the academic year for each component offered in that academic year. Midterm tests cannot be retaken. The Board of Examiners determines the manner of resit for practical assignments.
For review and feedback, see Brightspace.

Reading list

See Brightspace.

Registration

Enrolment through MyStudyMap (button in upper right corner) is mandatory. General information about course and exam enrolment is available on the website.

Contact

For substantive questions, contact the lecturer(s) (listed in the right information bar).

Remarks

Software
Starting from the 2024/2025 academic year, the Faculty of Science will use the software distribution platform Academic Software. Through this platform, you can access the software needed for specific courses in your studies. For some software, your laptop must meet certain system requirements, which will be specified with the software. It is important to install the software before the start of the course. More information about the laptop requirements can be found on the student website.