Numerical Simulation in Physics

lphys1303  2020-2021  Louvain-la-Neuve

Numerical Simulation in Physics
Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the information below is subject to change, in particular that concerning the teaching mode (presential, distance or in a comodal or hybrid format).
4 credits
22.5 h + 30.0 h
Q2
Teacher(s)
Crucifix Michel; Piraux Bernard; Ragone Francesco (compensates Piraux Bernard);
Language
French
Prerequisites

The prerequisite(s) for this Teaching Unit (Unité d’enseignement – UE) for the programmes/courses that offer this Teaching Unit are specified at the end of this sheet.
Main themes
IInitiation to numerical simulation in physics by solving partial differential equations using finite difference methods or spectral methods.
Aims

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

1 a.     Contribution of the teaching unit to the learning outcomes of the programme
1.4 , 1.7,
2.1, 2.3, 2.4
3.3
4.1
5.1
6.1, 6.4
b.     Specific learning outcomes of the teaching unit
At the end of this teaching unit, the student will be able to:
1.     explain the importance and interest of numerical simulation methods in physics;
2.     analyse the stability, convergence and accuracy of a numerical method;
3.     compare alternative numerical methods for solving a differential equation;
4.     design a methodology for solving a given physical problem by numerical simulation;
5.     write a report on solving a physical problem by numerical simulation.
 
Content
1.     General introduction to numerical methods
2.     Finte difference methods
a.     Initial condition problem (ordinary differential equations)
b.     Boundary condition problem
c.     Diffusion
d.     Advection
e.     Waves
3.     Spectral methods for the resolution of
a.     ordinary differential equations
b.     partial differential equations
Teaching methods

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the information in this section is particularly likely to change.

- Classroom lectures (using slides).
- Exercises framed as small projects in computer room.
Evaluation methods

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the information in this section is particularly likely to change.

Evaluation of two written reports on the resolution of physical problems by numerical methods: (a) finite difference methods; (b) spectral methods.
Bibliography
- M. Holmes, Introduction to Numerical Methods in Differential Equations, Springer Texts in Applied Mathematics (52),  2007.
- L. N. Trefethen, Spectral methods in Matlab, SIAM publications, Oxford, 2000.
- D. Gottlieb et S. A. Orszag, Numerical analysis of spectral methods: Theory and applications, SIAM, 1986.
Faculty or entity
PHYS


Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)

Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Aims
Master [120] in Physical Engineering

Bachelor in Physics

Minor in Physics