Computational Methods in Materials Science (NANO*3600)

Code and section: NANO*3600*01

Term: Winter 2021

Instructor: Alex Gezerlis

Details

Course Information

Instructor

Alex Gezerlis
gezerlis@uoguelph.ca

Teaching Assistant

Aman Agarwal
aagarw03@uoguelph.ca

Lectures

(on Courselink)
Tuesday, Thursday 9 am – 9:50 am

Lab

(on Courselink)
Thursday 2:30 pm – 4:20 pm

Required textbook

  • A. Gezerlis, Numerical Methods in Physics with Python (Cambridge University Press, 2020) The book is freely available to U of G students
  • See also the companion website: https://numphyspy.org 

Recommended texts

  • Mark Newman, Computational Physics (Rev. ed., CreateSpace, 2013) 
  • Morten Hjorth-Jensen, Computational physics online lecture notes

Online resources on Python

  • (Official) Python Tutorial
  • (My) Python tutorial
  • Allen B. Downey, Think Python

Lecture Content

This is a first course on what is known as computational science or scientific computing. We will focus on the interplay between science problem, mathematical formulation, and computational implementation. Previous exposure to programming is not required but will certainly be beneficial. We will cover the essentials of the following subjects:

  • Idiomatic Python
  • Precision and errors
  • Differentiation
  • Linear algebra
  • Root-finding
  • Interpolation and fitting
  • Integration
  • Differential equations

Grading

70% Assignments
30% Take-home final exam

Office Hours

  • I will be showing up (virtually) for pre-lecture discussion at 8:30 am once a week 
  • Alternative arrangements can be made via email

Course policy regarding grading

Each homework assignment should be handed in on the due date before the lecture begins. There will be a significant penalty for late assignments, unless special arrangements are made ahead of time.

Course policy regarding use of electronic devices and recording of lectures

Electronic recording of classes is expressly forbidden without consent of the instructor.  When recordings are permitted they are solely for the use of the authorized student and may not be reproduced, or transmitted to others, without the express written consent of the instructor.

Course Policies

Academic Consideration

When you find yourself unable to meet an in-course requirement because of illness or compassionate reasons, please advise the course instructor in writing, with your name, id#, and e-mail contact. 

See the academic calendar for information on regulations and procedures for Academic Consideration.

Academic Misconduct

The University of Guelph is committed to upholding the highest standards of academic integrity and it is the responsibility of all members of the University community, faculty, staff, and students to be aware of what constitutes academic misconduct and to do as much as possible to prevent academic offences from occurring.

University of Guelph students have the responsibility of abiding by the University's policy on academic misconduct regardless of their location of study; faculty, staff and students have the responsibility of supporting an environment that discourages misconduct. Students need to remain aware that instructors have access to and the right to use electronic and other means of detection. 

Please note: Whether or not a student intended to commit academic misconduct is not relevant for a finding of guilt. Hurried or careless submission of assignments does not excuse students from responsibility for verifying the academic integrity of their work before submitting it. Students who are in any doubt as to whether an action on their part could be construed as an academic offence should consult with a faculty member or faculty advisor.

The Academic Misconduct Policy is detailed in the Undergraduate Calendar

Accessibility

The University of Guelph is committed to creating a barrier-free environment. Providing services for students is a shared responsibility among students, faculty and administrators. This relationship is based on respect of individual rights, the dignity of the individual and the University community's shared commitment to an open and supportive learning environment. Students requiring service or accommodation, whether due to an identified, ongoing disability or a short-term disability should contact the Student Accessibility Services as soon as possible.

For more information, contact CSD at 519-824-4120 ext. 56208 or email accessibility@uoguelph.ca or visit Student Accessibility Services

Course Evaluation Information

Please refer to the Course and Instructor Evaluation Website