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5.37. Computational Physics (Mandatory)

5.37.1. Justification ↑ Back to top

This course applies the principles of physics to computational problems, with an emphasis on light, wave propagation, collisions, and energy transfer. These concepts are essential in areas such as computer graphics, physical simulations, and video game development.

5.37.2. Generales Goals ↑ Back to top

1. Understand the physical principles relevant to computing.
2. Apply these principles to solve specific computational problems.
3. Implement physics-based algorithms for simulations and computer graphics.

5.37.3. Contribution to Outcomes ↑ Back to top

AG-C08) Problem Analysis: Identifies, formulates, and analyzes complex computing problems. (Usage)

AG-C11) Use of Tools: Applies modern computing tools in problem solving. (Usage)

5.37.4. Content ↑ Back to top

5.37.4.1. Optics and Light Propagation (10 hours) [Skills AG-C08,AG-C11] ↑ Back to top

Bibliography: (Young and Freedman, 2018; Hecht, 2017)

Topics

1. Nature of light.
2. Reflection and refraction.
3. Lenses and mirrors.
4. Interference and diffraction.
5. Illumination models (e.g., Phong, Blinn-Phong).

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the properties of light and its propagation. [Familiarity]
2. Apply the laws of reflection and refraction. [Usage]
3. Implement illumination models in computer graphics. [Assessment]

5.37.4.2. Collisions and Energy Transfer (8 hours) [Skills AG-C08,AG-C11] ↑ Back to top

Bibliography: (Young and Freedman, 2018; Taylor, 2005)

Topics

1. Impulse and linear momentum.
2. Elastic and inelastic collisions.
3. Conservation of energy in collisions.
4. Deformation of elastic meshes (e.g., mass-spring model).

Learning Outcomes

1. Apply the principles of conservation of linear momentum and energy in collisions. [Familiarity]
2. Model the deformation of elastic meshes due to impact. [Usage]
3. Implement collision simulations in a computational environment. [Assessment]

5.37.4.3. Rigid Body Mechanics (8 hours) [Skills AG-C08,AG-C11] ↑ Back to top

Bibliography: (Young and Freedman, 2018; Taylor, 2005)

Topics

1. Rotation of rigid bodies.
2. Moment of inertia.
3. Torque and rotational kinetic energy.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the rotation of rigid bodies. [Familiarity]
2. Calculate the moment of inertia. [Usage]
3. Apply the equations of rotational dynamics. [Assessment]

5.37.4.4. Fluid Dynamics (6 hours) [Skills AG-C08,AG-C11] ↑ Back to top

Bibliography: (Young and Freedman, 2018)

Topics

1. Basic principles of fluid dynamics.
2. Viscosity.
3. Laminar and turbulent flow.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the properties of fluids. [Familiarity]
2. Explain the concepts of viscosity and laminar/turbulent flow. [Usage]
3. Solve simple fluid dynamics problems. [Assessment]

5.37.4.5. Thermodynamics (6 hours) [Skills AG-C08,AG-C11] ↑ Back to top

Bibliography: (Young and Freedman, 2018)

Topics

1. Laws of thermodynamics.
2. Heat transfer.

Learning Outcomes

1. State the laws of thermodynamics. [Familiarity]
2. Describe the mechanisms of heat transfer. [Usage]

5.37.4.6. Physical Simulation (10 hours) [Skills AG-C08,AG-C11] ↑ Back to top

Bibliography: (Taylor, 2005)

Topics

1. Numerical methods for physical simulation.
2. Verlet integration.
3. Collision detection.
4. Particle systems.
5. Constraints and solvers.

Learning Outcomes

1. Implement basic numerical methods for physical simulation. [Familiarity]
2. Use Verlet integration to simulate motion. [Usage]
3. Implement collision detection algorithms. [Assessment]

5.37.5. Bibliography ↑ Back to top

Young, H. D. and Freedman, R. A. (2018). University Physics with Modern Physics. Pearson.

Hecht, E. (2017). Optics. Pearson.

Taylor, J. R. (2005). Classical Mechanics. University Science Books.