Introductory description

This module introduces the Python programming language. It is quick to learn and encourages good programming style. Python is an interpreted language, which makes it flexible and easy to share. It allows easy interfacing with modules, which have been compiled from C or Fortran sources. It is widely used throughout physics and there are many downloadable free-to-user codes available. The module also looks at visualisation of data.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

A brief introduction to python: Simple maths and physics on the computer

Data/File Input/Output and control in Python: Loops, conditions and lists; analyse simple physics
data; Arrays and computer graphics; plotting curves and working with vectors and matrices

Functions: Algorithms and software design; tests, error handling and modules; Random numbers
and computer simulations; Maths on the computer; Differential equations, integration, linear
algebra

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Use scientific and graphical libraries
• Respect the principles of good software design
• Present their results graphically
• Write python programs to formulate and solve simple maths and physics problems involving differential equations, linear algebra and integration

Indicative reading list

Python documentation: http://www.python.org/doc/
Scientific Python: http://docs.scipy.org/doc/scipy/reference/
H.P. Langtangen, A Primer on scientific programming with Python, Springer e-books (2012):
http://link.springer.com/book/10.1007%2F978-3-642-18366-9

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

Programming in Python

Transferable skills

IT, problem-solving, self-study