VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

402-0809-00L 8 Credits BSC , MSC D-ITET , D-PHYS , D-MATL , D-ARCH , D-INFK , D-MATH
You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

Introduction to Computational Physics

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Andreas Adelmann
VVZ CR 2.0

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:31:16

Abstract

This course offers an introduction to computer simulation methods for physics problems and their implementation on PCs and super computers. The covered topics include classical equations of motion, partial differential equations (wave equation, diffusion equation, Maxwell's equations), Monte Carlo simulations, percolation, phase transitions, and N-Body problems.

Objective

Students learn to apply the following methods: Random number generators, Determination of percolation critical exponents, numerical solution of problems from classical mechanics and electrodynamics, canonical Monte-Carlo simulations to numerically analyze magnetic systems. Students also learn how to implement their own numerical frameworks in Julia and how to use existing libraries to solve physical problems. In addition, students learn to distinguish between different numerical methods to apply them to solve a given physical problem.

Content

Introduction to computer simulation methods for physics problems. Models from classical mechanics, electrodynamics and statistical mechanics as well as some interdisciplinary applications are used to introduce modern programming methods for numerical simulations using Julia. Furthermore, an overview of existing software libraries for numerical simulations is presented.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes and slides are available online and will be distributed if desired.

Literature

Literature recommendations and references are included in the lecture notes.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 20 minutes
Prüfungssprache: Deutsch oder Englisch / Language of examination: English or German.For the first 10 minutes you will be provided with a sheet of questions to answer. Please take the time to write down your solutions and/or sketch them on a piece of paper.The remaining 10 minutes will be dedicated to discussing the questions with me. Both the written solutions/sketches from the preparation and the discussion with me will be taken into account when grading your exam.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Introduction to Computational Physics
  • Tue 09:45-11:30 (HCI J 7)
2 h weekly
exercise Introduction to Computational Physics
  • Tue 07:45-09:30 (HCI J 7)
2 h weekly

Offered In