Terms and Concepts

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Scientific Computing Terms

Solver

A computational solver is an algorithm or a software application that performs numerical analysis. It's used to solve mathematical problems, often involving complex system models and large amounts of data. It can be applied in fields such as physics, engineering, and logistics where high-precision solutions are required.

Optimization

Numerical Optimization is a branch of mathematics that deals with finding the best (optimal) solution to a problem given certain constraints. It involves the process of improving a system's performance or efficiency by adjusting its parameters according to a specific algorithm. This can be used in a variety of fields such as machine learning, data analysis, and operations research to enhance decision-making processes and outcomes.

Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic and logical approach to discovering how things in the universe work. It involves formulating hypotheses, via induction, based on observations; experimental and measurement-based testing of deductions drawn from the hypotheses; and refinement (or elimination) of the hypotheses based on the experimental findings. It is used in various fields, such as physics, chemistry, biology and psychology, to gather knowledge and find explanations to phenomena. The steps usually include observation, research, hypothesis formulation, conducting experiments, analysis, and reporting results.

Experiments

Computational experiments are a method used in scientific research to test theories and hypotheses. These experiments involve the use of computer simulations and models, rather than physical experimentation. Computational experiments can help researchers explore complex systems and phenomena that are difficult to study in the physical world, such as climate change, the evolution of galaxies, and the behavior of complex molecules. They can also save time and resources, and reduce the need for physical testing in some cases.