Introduction to Computer Simulation

Catalog description

Prerequisite: A grade of C or higher in Calculus I ( MATH-UA 121 ) or Math for Economics II (MATH-UA 212) (for economics majors), and General Physics ( PHYS-UA 11 ). Simulations of such phenomena as orbits (Kepler problem and N-body problem), epidemic and endemic disease (including evolution in response to the selective pressure of malaria), musical stringed instruments (piano, guitar, and violin), and traffic flow in a city (with lights, breakdowns, and gridlock). Simulations are based on mathematical models, numerical methods, and Matlab programming techniques taught in class. Emphasizes use of animation (and sound where appropriate) to present the results of simulations.