An Introduction to Computational Physics

Textbook introducing basic methods of computational physics and giving overview of several advanced topics; for advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate students.

This book provides an introduction to the basic methods of computational physics, as well as an overview of recent progress in several areas of scientific computing. The author presents many step-by-step examples of practical numerical methods, often with the relevant program listing. The first half of the book deals with basic computational tools and routines, covering differential equations, spectral analysis, and matrix operations, which are illustrated by examples. The author also discusses more advanced topics, such as Monte Carlo simulations, lattice gas methods, molecular dynamics, and symbolic computing. The book includes many exercises, and it can be used as a textbook for senior undergraduate or first-year graduate courses on scientific computation. It will also be a useful reference for anyone involved in computational physics or related disciplines.