Computational Methods in Physics, Chemistry and Biology: An Introduction

Providing an accessible introduction to a range of modern computational techniques, this book is perfect for anyone with only a limited knowledge of physics. It leads readers through a series of examples, problems, and practical-based tasks covering the basics to more complex ideas and techniques. The focus is placed on the dynamic area of modern physics, helping readers understand the power and uses of computational physics.
* Leads the reader from a basic introduction to more sophisticated techniques
* Provides the skill-building exercises necessary to tackle more complex problems
* Applies essential techniques to a wide range of key problems

Computational Methods in Physics, Chemistry and Biology offers an accessible introduction to key computational techniques used within science, including quantum mechanics, dynamics, evolutionary methods and molecular dynamics. Assuming only a limited background in computational methods, this book provides the reader with a series of comprehensive examples, problems and practical-based tasks from the basics through to more complex ideas and techniques.

Beginning with an introduction to a numerical solution of Schrödinger's Equation the text moves on to discuss perturbation theory, variational calculations, diffusion, dynamics, Monte Carlo simulations and genetic algorithms. Aimed at those new to the field, the book will enable the reader to develop and implement computational methods for the solutions of a range of problems in science.

Features:

* An accessible introduction covering a range of essential techniques applicable to key problems

* Numerous examples, problems and practical-based exercises.

* A supplementary website including solutions

This is essential reading for undergraduates taking courses in computational physics, or numerical methods. Also useful to students studying engineering, applied mathematics, computational chemistry and mathematical biology.