PX2134: Structured Programming

School Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy
Department Code PHYSX
Module Code PX2134
External Subject Code 101071
Number of Credits 10
Level L5
Language of Delivery English
Module Leader Dr Martin Elliott
Semester Autumn Semester
Academic Year 2014/5

Outline Description of Module

  • To develop skill in Python - using functions and control flow.
  • To introduce programming and analytic methods commonly encountered in science.
  • To provide practice in the use of computing in solving a range of physics problems.

On completion of the module a student should be able to

  • Write structured computer code using Python functions.
  • Implement simple numerical methods which have particular relevance to physics.
  • Write working computer programs which handle input and output and library routines.
  • Analyse physical problems (by developing suitable algorithms, modelling the problem and interpreting the results of the numerical calculations).

How the module will be delivered

Lectures 11 x 1 hr, computing laboratory 11 x 2 hrs, marked worksheets.

Skills that will be practised and developed

Computing skills.  Mathematics.  Problem solving.  Analytical skills.

How the module will be assessed

Course work 100%.

Assessment Breakdown

Type % Title Duration(hrs)
Written Assessment 100 Structured Programming N/A

Syllabus content

Programming using Python: Functions, control flow (branches and loops).
Numerical techniques: Introduction to important techniques such as Runge-Kutta.
Libraries: Using library routines such as differential equation solvers.
Applications: Application of computing techniques to the solution of a range of physics problems.

Essential Reading and Resource List

Computational Methods in Physics, Chemistry and Biology: An introduction. Paul Harison. John Wiley & Sons.

Background Reading and Resource List

Not applicable.


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