COMP2421 Numerical Computation
10 Credits Class Size: 500
Module manager: Dr Thomas Ranner
Email: t.ranner@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running
2024/25
Pre-requisites
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Module summary
Accuracy of floating-point computation. Standard numerical algorithms for linear equation systems, nonlinear equations, ordinary differential equations. The design of accurate, robust and efficient implementations in code.
Objectives
On completion of the year/programme students should have provided evidence of being able to:
- Use, data-based arguments to justify choosing a computational algorithm appropriately, accounting for issues of accuracy, reliability and efficiency;
- Understand how to assess/measure the error in a numerical algorithm and be familiar with how such errors are controlled;
- Implement simple numerical algorithms accurately and present results in a variety of forms.
Syllabus
Approximation: converting a real-world problem, via a mathematical model, to a form which can be understood by a computer; discretising a continuous model; measuring, analysing and controlling approximation errors; balancing accuracy and efficiency.
Static systems: simple iterative methods for solving nonlinear scalar equations; direct and iterative methods for solving linear systems of equations.
Evolving systems: differentiation as rate of change and as the limit of a gradient (including derivatives of simple functions); initial value ordinary differential equations, simple methods for initial value problems.
Teaching Methods
| Delivery type |
Number |
Length hours |
Student hours |
| Lecture |
20 |
1 |
20 |
| Tutorial |
10 |
1 |
10 |
| Private study hours |
70 |
| Total Contact hours |
30 |
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) |
100 |
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Tutorial / lab sessions.
Formative essays in style of final assessment.
Methods of Assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type |
Notes |
% of formal assessment |
| In-course Assessment |
8 Weekly-assigned Short Questions. Best 6 of 8 give credit. |
20 |
| In-course Assessment |
Final piece of coursework demonstrating deep understanding of module content |
80 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) |
100 |
This module is re-assessed by final coursework only
Reading List
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 30/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team