Computational Physics: An Introduction (Hardcover)

by Franz J. Vesely (Author) "Let f(x) be a continuous function of one variable..." (more)
Key Phrases: equidistributed random numbers, nearest image convention, biased random walk, Monte Carlo, Gaussian Markov, Lattice Boltzmann (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
about the first edition: `... a concise introduction to the methods and algorithms used in computational physics...clear in its presentation... useful for those beginning more advanced work in the field...' From the reviews of the second edition: "The book is an excellent introduction to computational physics. … The book can be useful for graduate students of physical and mathematical faculties as well as for specialists in the field of numerical mathematics and mathematical modeling." (Piotr Matus, Zentralblatt MATH, Vol. 1049 (24), 2004)

Product Description
The essential point in computational physics is not the use of machines, but the systematic application of numerical techniques in place of, and in addition to, analytical methods, in order to render accessible to computation as large a part of physical reality as possible. The various available techniques, disparate as they may seem, are traced back to only three main methodological sources; finite difference calculus, linear algebra, and stochastics. Each algorithm is carefully introduced and every computational tool is explained in terms of fundamental numerical techniques. Examples from statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and hydrodynamics are employed to bridge the gap between basic methodology and modern research. This second edition of Franz Vesely's renowned textbook takes into account the new vistas that have opened up recently in this rapidly evolving field. Furthermore, web-based sample programs augment the text.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 278 pages
• Publisher: Springer; 2nd edition (June 1, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0306466317
• ISBN-13: 978-0306466311
• Product Dimensions: 10.1 x 7 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,527,736 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Review from Measurement and Control Volume 37/1 Feb 04, March 8, 2004

By A Customer

....provides a good working knowledge of the techniques used to solve problems in hydrodynamics, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics. To get the most out of the book, the reader should be familiar with vector notation (div, grad and curl), matrix algebra, the theory of ordinary and partial differential equations, and Monte-Carlo simultation techniques. The 2nd edition of Franz Vesely's book includes recent developments in lattice-gas cellular models for hydrodynamics such as the Lattice Boltzmann method. This is an advance on the Frisch, Hasslacher and Pomeau model. The conclusion is that any book attempting to contemporise the field of computational physics will always be worth the expenditure; it not only reaffirms background theory, but also points the way to new ideas and fresh applications. Review by Paul Barker