Computational Physics Simulations

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The discussion centers on the challenges faced by a recent physics graduate learning Python and C++ with the goal of exploring computational physics simulations, particularly in fluid mechanics and related concepts. The individual is seeking guidance on which programming language is more suitable for simulations, noting that while Python is efficient for numerical computations and has modules for 3D simulations, C++ is often preferred for more complex tasks, especially in 3D modeling and fluid dynamics. There is confusion regarding the various tools and concepts involved, such as 2D and 3D engines, parallel computing, and different graphics libraries. The individual is looking for advice on how to start building simulations and whether Python is worth pursuing for 3D projects. Additionally, there is a request for a simplified explanation of parallel computing and its benefits. A recommended resource is the book "An Introduction to Computer Simulation Methods" by Gould, Tobochnik, and Christian, which includes Java examples and source code.
Taylor_1989
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Advice on programing languages for computational physics
I am currently learning python and c++ and interested in the near distant future on exploring some computational physics simulations. But have seem to hit a road block. I have just finished my undergrad in physics and have some time to explore physics concepts that were never really cleared up during my undergrad. My issue is what language is best for simulations.

The areas in which I am most interested in exploring is Fluid mechanics specially flow of fluids around objects and vector fields and in generally learning more about stokes law and other aspects of fluid mechanics through simulations.

My other interests are Lagrange and Hamiltonian mechanics and eventually moving into quantum mechanics.

From what I have read from the internet, python is slightly more efficient for numerical computations tho there are modules that will allow for 3d simulations in python, C++ seem to be preferred.

Looking more into 3d simulations and building fluid models C++ seem to be best but there a lot of stuff that I can't seem to follow, as there 2D and 3D engines, parallel computing, different graphics libraries and I can't seem to get a handle where to start?Could anyone lend some advice on how someone new to computational physics simulations, how to go about learning a building these simulations.
Is python worth exploring for 3D simulations or is C++ way to go and maybe could some please explain what parallel computing is in laymends terms beacuse my internet search on this seem to give differnt examples which confuse me, and what is the benfits to parallel computing.
 
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Well there's a book by Gould, Tobochnik and Christian called An Introduction to Computer Simulation Methods.

The examples are in Java and the they provide the source code for them at:

www.compadre.org/osp
 
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