What is Computational: Definition and 318 Discussions

Computation is any type of calculation that includes both arithmetical and non-arithmetical steps and which follows a well-defined model (e.g. an algorithm).
Mechanical or electronic devices (or, historically, people) that perform computations are known as computers. An especially well-known discipline of the study of computation is computer science.

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  1. Q

    Does Organic Chemistry Have Strong Roots in Computational Chemistry?

    So I'm an undergraduate student in Chemistry in my junior year and I recently transferred schools for a better science program. The one I was at was very, well, easy. Like toddler easy. I never went to class and I aced everything. Here, they're far ahead and it's much more rigorous. I was...
  2. S

    PhD in physics: computational material science

    Source: Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids, Dresden, Germany The Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids in Dresden, Germany, offers excellent research possibilities for students to obtain a PhD degree in a three-year graduate program in collaboration with the...
  3. Astronuc

    Computational Fluid Dynamics by John D. Anderson

    Author: John D. Anderson Title: Computational Fluid Dynamics: The Basics with Applications Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0070016852/?tag=pfamazon01-20 Prerequisities: Calculus, Introductory Physics and/or Aerospace Engineering, Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer Level...
  4. F

    Computational cost of calculating an inverse via Gauss-Jordan

    Homework Statement Find the computational cost for finding the inverse of an nxn matrix via Gauss-Jordan elimination. That is setting up A|I and converting it to I|A-1.Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution So I can't see where I went wrong, but my answer does not agree with my fellow...
  5. P

    Computational complexity question

    how can i represent the computational complexity an algorithm that requires the following number of operations: (please see attached document) $(N-1) + \sum_{i=1}^{N-3}(i+1)(N-2)!/{i!}$
  6. K

    Is COT3100 (Computational Structures) suitable for beginners in programming?

    Would I be in over my head taking COT3100 (Computational Structures) before taking COP2220 (Computer Science I)? Here are the catalog entries for both: COT3100: Prerequisite: MAC 2311 (Calc I) or MAC 2233. Applications of finite mathematics to CIS. Sets, relations, functions, and number...
  7. T

    Exploring a Computational Mathematics Graduate Program

    I am going to graduate school for math and i think i am interested in computational mathematics (I say think because i don't fully know what computational math is). I have taken a numerical analysis class in my undergraduate program and i can program in a few different languages. I'm just...
  8. J

    Comp Sci Computational Physics Programming using fortran g95

    Homework Statement Create a program that computes for the value of sine function. Then compute for its integral from 0 to pi with N intervals, where N=4,8,16,256 and 1024 and compare the result for the trapezoid and simpson method. Homework Equations Trapezoid rule of Integration...
  9. J

    Computational Physics Machine Problem

    We need to think of a machine problem which we are going to simulate and solve using fortran programming. Can someone please give me an idea on what machine problem to do? Something easy please coz I don't really have much idea about programming. I only know the basics. Thanks :)
  10. N

    Schools Biomathematics major in undergrad for computational neuroscience in grad school?

    What do you think about a major such as bioinformatics versus a major in physics and minor in mathematics or a major in 'cell biology& neuroscience' w/ minor in computer science in terms of preparing me for computational neuroscience -- taking in mind that I've completed courses such as linear...
  11. N

    A few questions about the field of computational neuroscience

    Hi, I am a physics & math double major but I am very interested in computational neuroscience. I am particularly very curious about how the field will potentially be around 10 years from now. I am extremely interested in things such as the blue brain project, the connectome project, and the...
  12. D

    Physics Computational Condensed Matter Physics

    Hi, I'm in my senior year, planning on going to grad school and get a PhD. At this point, I'm pretty much set on computational and/or theoretical condensed matter physics (with an emphasis on computation). However, two people have given me the impression that experimental condensed matter is...
  13. J

    Computational Physics (Making programs for interpolation and differentiation)

    Homework Statement Chapter 4 1. Write a program that implements the first order (linear) interpolation 2. Write a program that implemets n-point Lagrange interpolation. Trean n as an imput parameter. 3. Apply the program to study the quality of the Lagrange interpolation to functions...
  14. K

    Which is the Best Computational Physics Book Based on C Programming?

    Can anyone recommend a good book on computational physics. I have a good understanding of C and would like the book to be based around C. Thanks =D
  15. S

    Computational language theory proof

    Homework Statement I need to prove this http://www.freeimagehosting.net/newuploads/66exd.jpg R represents the reversal of...L1 and L2 represent languages, which can represent strings. (L1L2) = the concatenation of L1 and L2 Ex. L1 = 01001 L2 = 001 L1L2 = 01001001 (L1L2)^R...
  16. V

    Computational and Theoretical Physics

    Hello I am starting university this year in the physics department of Bilkent University. I have been doing some general research and I have noticed that computational methods are becoming more and more important in fields such as condensed matter, quantum mechanics, cosmology, biophysics. It...
  17. jbrussell93

    Applied Math vs Computational Science and Engineering (CSE)

    I'm a biological engineering major who is starting to lean more towards mathematics. More specifically, I'm interested in mathematical modeling and applying these models to biological systems, geosystems, ecology, etc (mainly scientific problems). I will be minoring in math in order to...
  18. T

    Programming language for computational science in future

    Hello everyone. Which programming language do you think will dominate the computational world in this decade and thereafter? I know so far Fortran is the King in computational physics, but was curious to know which other languages (like C++, Python, Java, etc.) are in the trend of dominating...
  19. W

    Error in Algebraic Construction or Computational Translation?

    I have an equation that I've been trying to solve. I manipulated it until I had a=f(d) and then did by best to put it into a format the computer recognizes. However when I went back to check the results against the unsimplified version of the equation, they didn't work out as they should have...
  20. S

    Is Computational Neuroscience the Key to Understanding the Mind?

    I've always want to understand the mind and its inner working. After lots of consideration I've narrowed my choice down to computational neuroscience. I know it's a hardcore science but I'd like to know more about it. How much math is required? What disciplines would suit it best? Every...
  21. F

    Math Career opportunities for Pure or computational mathematics

    I currently have a B.S. in mathematics and just got accepted into a Ph. D. program for math. In this program there are 4 different specializations: applied math, statistics, pure math, and computational math. Out of these pure math interests me the most, however, I'm afraid I won't be able to...
  22. L

    Engineering Computational Science MS to Engineering OR Applied Math?

    Hello all, I've gotten myself in quite a mess and how I might hope to resolve it is...questionable. I'm wondering about your input. Last Fall, I applied to PhD programs in (Applied) Math under the impression that I wanted to strive to become a professor in mathematics. Since accepting one...
  23. Astronuc

    Computational Physics and Advanced Computing in Nuclear Engineering

    We occasionally get questions related to codes and computational methods. There have been considerable advances in computational methods and computational systems in the field of nuclear energy and nuclear engineering. This thread serves to address previous developments and follow current...
  24. N

    Pursuing PhD in Computational Materials Science

    Hi all, I'm currently a senior studying chemical engineering. I'll be graduating this December. I am greatly interested in pursuing a PhD in materials science, and I am looking for programs that include an emphasis in computational materials (e.g. simulation of atomic structures). I am...
  25. N

    Alternative to Computational Physics

    Hello I'll get straight to the point. I'm really interested in going into Computational Physics. Where I live (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) not many offer that program nor are any of them close to me who do offer the program. I was wondering if it would be alright for me to do something...
  26. jbrussell93

    Computational Neuroscience Programs in different departments?

    So I have been looking into different computational neuroscience programs lately, and I'm wondering what the difference is between departments. Some comp neurosci programs are housed in applied mathematics, computer science, engineering, or biology while others are just in the neuroscience...
  27. N

    Computational Physics: University Programs in Toronto, Canada

    Do universities offer both as a mixed program? Or do I have to major in one and minor in the other? If it would help, I'm in Toronto Canada. Thank you. :)
  28. B

    Vast computational richness from swapping one proton

    I think wikipedia says that liquid elements have their electrons nearer the nucleus causing them to move more per moment, causing liquidness. Thus gallium at meltpoint apparently goes through vastly more quantum transitions than say either of its periodic table neighbors Zinc or Germanium...
  29. C

    Computational Physics: Should I Get a BS or BA?

    Hello, I'm interested in pursuing a career in computational physics or any field that involves computer science and physics (both are my majors). I have also considered video game programming and simulation/modeling. You get the idea. My question is - for someone who wants to be a...
  30. M

    How to make a meaningful contribution in computational research?

    Hey, I will soon learn to code and would like to get a feel of how it's used in scientific research. I was thinking of using Python as it's used in physics a lot (apparently) and there are a lot of resources for it, even an OCW course. I know a prof who might be able to let me contribute a...
  31. D

    Computational electromagnetics books

    I would like to make an electromagnetic simulator, but I have no experience in this. I have written 3-dimensional ray tracing software for acoustic sources in MATLAB, but I did not include any boundary conditions, it was just propagation in free space through refractions. My only background...
  32. B

    Biology Bioinformatics and Computational Biology? What is it really like?

    Hello, I am a high-school student applying to universities. I like math, and I like bio. I want a career that is the cross-section between these two subjects. I've been told about computational biology and bioinformatics. Can anyone please share any familiar experiences or any insight...
  33. F

    Need help on deciding specialization within computational science

    So I decided to my masters in computational science. I chose this because the part of my undergrad that I enjoyed the most was the math/programming/numerical methods. Within Computational Science I will have to specialize and I am really not sure what I want to do, therefore I was hoping to get...
  34. T

    Courses Which Computer Science Course to Help in Computational Physics

    I'm doing a computational emphasis at my university and since it is as I said an emphasis not a lot of classes are required for it. I look at other schools that offer a BS in computational physics and they require a lot more CS classes. What I'm looking for is some advice in which CS or EE...
  35. G

    Numerical Analysis or Computational Physics

    So, I want attend either college X or Y; I'm using variables because I don't want to expand on the college, et cetera. If I choose to attend college X, I have to take a Computational Physics class to acquire the B.S. in Physics. Unfortunately, college Y does not offer Computational Physics as...
  36. C

    Similarities / Differences between Computer Science and Computational Science

    As stated in the title, what are some similarities and differences between computer science and computational science? More specifically, as it pertains to graduate programs. From what I gather, computational science is a little more applied while computer science is more theoretical. Is this...
  37. N

    What is computational physics?

    I'm an undergraduate aiming for a physics major, and I love computer science and numerical algorithms. I'm wondering: What does a computational physicist do? Would a computational physicist be programming all day or solving equations all day? I'm just kind of confused where the physics ends...
  38. A

    Computational and Experimental Work

    Both computational and experimental physicists' jobs are to match the results proposed by the theory. Can someone explain to me how the computational physicist studies nature? (ie does physics)? Also in subjects such as computational particle physics, the only reason we need models is because...
  39. G

    Msc computational engineering (FEM) or Msc financial engineering

    Hello and nice finding you!For a long time now I am thinking of financial markets and the world of derivatives as a very good future opportunity.Since I am a ''computational guy'' and in love with the finite element analysis,I decided to let my mind go of the Msc in geotechnical engineering and...
  40. B

    Computational Astronomy career advice please?

    Hi All! My name is bergw, I'm new here and I'm looking for some advice. I'm a software engineer in the CAD business who is dying for more interesting work! I'd really like to get back to the interests I had back from college(Astronomy) but I'm finding it difficult even finding software...
  41. K

    Regarding Computational Physics

    Hello! Some questions regarding Computational Physics: 1. Education: In becoming a Computational Physicist, What would one take as a major in the undergraduate level, and as well as in the graduate and post graduate levels (Masters and Phd, respectfully)? - Would one take a BS major in...
  42. M

    Physics Is a Transfer to UCSD for Computational Physics a Good Idea?

    Hi everyone, I'm a freshman at a community college in California. I'm planning to transfer to UC San Diego later because of their undergraduate program- B.S. in Physics with specialization in Computational Physics. I really like science and it's my dream to become a scientist but I want to...
  43. P

    Jobs for masters in Computational Science

    So I have the opportunity to spend two years getting a masters in computational science at the university I got my bachelors at. Its through the math dept. and my undergrad degree was in math so it shouldn't be a problem getting in. If I do it I intend to do my interdisciplinary concentration...
  44. B

    Standard Benchmark Problem for Computational Solution of Poisson Equation

    Hi, I am working on FEM methods as a part of my senior year project and I have written a poisson solver for the same purpose. The solver works pretty well on the simple problems that I have designed as of now and seems to give correct answer (i.e. the data matches the theoretical prediction) 1...
  45. S

    Can I do grad studies in computational physics if my BSc is in chemistry?

    Hello everyone, Just wondering how different the two really are. I'm interested in developing functionals and was wondering if the two are really distinguishable. On an added note, by the time I graduate, I will have had two research terms in computational chemistry. One applications, and the...
  46. B

    Courses Which course would be most useful for a computational physicist?

    Hi all, long time reader, 2nd time poster. The long story: I'm a physics major in my senior year, and I've recently developed an interest in computational physics/chemistry and I'm considering pursuing it in graduate school. I became interested in computational science when I took a basic...
  47. A

    Is a computational oracle physically possible?

    def: oracle: see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oracle_machine Question: wouldn't an oracle violate the law of conservation of energy or second law of thermodynamics, by creating a device similar to the Maxwell Demon? In other words, would being able to get information without actually...
  48. M

    Physics A-Levels for Theoretical Physics: Maths, Physics, Computing?

    I'm doing Physics, Maths and Further Maths for A Levels. I'm planning on doing Theoretical Physics in University. I had A* in Maths and A in Physics for GCSE's. I'm wondering if I should choose another subject? If so, what? Would computing be a good idea?
  49. H

    Computational Fluid Dynamics - Couette flow & Reynolds Number

    Homework Statement This is a part of an assignment for a computational modelling paper requiring the modelling of couette flow between two (infinite) parallel plates in MATLAB. The lower plate is stationary while the upper plate moves at 0.1m/s, the plates are 0.01m apart and the no slip...
  50. Y

    Computational complexity with an epsilon

    What does that mean when there's an \epsilon in the complexity, such as O(n^{2+\epsilon}) for every \epsilon >0
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