Programming for research physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the necessity of programming skills for research experiences for undergraduates (REUs) in physics, including recommendations for programming languages and resources for learning. Participants also explore the relevance of numerical analysis in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the necessity of knowing a programming language for REUs and seeks advice on learning resources.
  • Another participant asserts that programming skills are essential and suggests starting with any programming language, mentioning C++, Python, C, or Java as viable options.
  • A suggestion is made to study numerical analysis alongside programming, as it may be relevant for tasks in an REU.
  • A request for recommendations on numerical analysis books is made by a participant.
  • Responses include a recommendation for "Numerical Recipes" in various programming languages.
  • Some participants note the continued use of FORTRAN, particularly versions F95 and F2003, and mention that legacy code in older FORTRAN versions still exists.
  • It is mentioned that Python and Java are often used to support FORTRAN or C++ programs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that programming skills are important for REUs, but there is no consensus on which specific programming language is best or whether a book is necessary for learning.

Contextual Notes

There are varying opinions on the relevance of different programming languages and the necessity of formal learning resources, which may depend on individual preferences and specific REU requirements.

Who May Find This Useful

Students applying for REUs in physics or related fields, educators advising students on preparation for research opportunities, and individuals interested in programming for scientific applications.

Sjm757
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I'm applying for some REU's later on this year and I'm wondering whether knowing a programming language is necessary, and if so what book(s) I should get to learn. Also if anyone else has done an REU, is there any other skills or outside school actives I could do to increase my chances of being selected?
 
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Sjm757 said:
I'm applying for some REU's later on this year and I'm wondering whether knowing a programming language is necessary, and if so what book(s) I should get to learn. Also if anyone else has done an REU, is there any other skills or outside school actives I could do to increase my chances of being selected?

Programming skills will be huge with a doubt. You don't even need a book to start, there are countless websites that have information for every language out there. Pick a language and start. The skills you acquire from one language will transfer to another. Any of these will work: C++, Python, C, or Java. I would recommend studying numerical analysis along with a language because I would guess if you do end up getting a REU you'd be doing something along these lines.. Or maintaining the broken down equipment.
 
Any recommendations for an numerical analysis book?
 
Look at Numerical Recipes in C/C++/Java/Whatever
 
Some still program in FORTRAN, now F95 or F2003, or C++.

There is still a lot of legacy code in F77 and F90.

Python scripts and Java are often used for supporting programs to FORTRAN or C++ executables.
 

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