-Introduction To Computational Science

-By Manvendra Singh (CS22B1054)

Assignment-1- What Is Computational Science?

 What is computational Engineering?
 Computational engineering is an interdisciplinary field that
involves the application of computational methods, mathematical
modelling, and simulation techniques to solve complex
engineering problems.
 In this computer simulations and numerical analysis are often
used to study various aspects of engineering systems, such as fluid
dynamics, structural mechanics, electromagnetics, materials
science, and more.

 How does it differentiate from Computer Science and

Engineering?
Difference Computational science Computer science and
criteria’s engineering
Purpose Concerned with using Focuses on designing, building,
computational methods to solve and optimizing computer
complex problems in scientific and hardware and software systems.
engineering domains.
Modelling and Mathematical models and Use simulations for testing and
simulation simulations to represent natural optimizing system performance
phenomena or complex systems. but is not primarily focused on
modelling natural processes.
Data-driven Emphasizes data analysis and May involve data handling for
processing, especially when dealing system performance analysis but
with experimental or observational not as a primary focus.
data.
Algorithm Develops domain-specific Focuses on general-purpose
development algorithms to solve scientific algorithms and software for
problems. computing systems.
Scientific discovery Aims to advance scientific Primarily concerned with
 understanding, make predictions, designing and building computing
and gain insights into natural technology rather than scientific
processes. discovery.
Validation and Rigorously tests and validates Ensures the reliability and
verification computational models against performance of computing
empirical data or experimental systems but not typically through
results. empirical validation.
Numerical methods Utilizes numerical techniques, such May use numerical methods for
as solving differential equations, optimization but not as a core
for scientific simulations. focus.
Domain specific Solutions are customized to Applies computing principles
specific scientific or engineering broadly across various industries
disciplines (e.g., physics, biology). and applications, not tied to
specific domains.

 What are sub-branches, if any? Use network maps

(similar to mind maps), Venn diagrams, or the like to
show these conceptual differences and connections.
 Computational science is a highly interdisciplinary field that
encompasses a wide range of sub-branches, each focused on
applying computational methods to specific scientific or
engineering domains.

 Some of the major sub-branches of computational science are: -

I. Computational physics
II. Computational chemistry
III. Computational biology
IV. Computational neuroscience
V. Computational material science
VI. Computational fluid dynamics
VII. Computational geosciences
VIII. Computational finance
IX. Computational medicine
X. Computational ecology
  The conceptual differences in the sub-branches of computational
science lie in their specific focus areas, such as physics, biology,
finance, and more.

 However, they share a common foundation of using

computational methods to model, simulate, and analyse complex
systems.

 Provide a few success stories on some

applications/cases, you may explore.
 Some of the notable success stories in different application
areas are: -
1. Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission):
a. Application: Space Exploration
b. Success Story: In 2013, India's space agency, the
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO),
 launched the Mars Orbiter Mission, also known as
Mangalyaan. This mission made India the fourth
country in the world to reach Mars and the first to
do so successfully on its maiden attempt. It was a
remarkable achievement for India's space program
and demonstrated the country's capabilities in
space exploration. Mangalyaan has provided
valuable data about the Martian atmosphere,
surface, and mineralogy.

2. Aadhaar:
a) Application: Digital Identity and Financial Inclusion
b) Success Story: The Aadhaar project is one of the
world's largest and most successful biometric
identification systems. It provides a unique 12-digit
identity number to each Indian resident based on
their biometric and demographic data. Aadhaar has
enabled efficient and secure delivery of government
services, including subsidies, pensions, and financial
transactions. It has played a crucial role in improving
financial inclusion and reducing corruption in
various social welfare programs.

 Summing up - why do we need to know all that?

 Understanding computational science is vital because it
empowers us to harness the immense potential of technology and
data.
 It enables problem-solving on a grand scale, from modelling
climate patterns to discovering new drugs.
 Computational science accelerates innovation, making research
and development more efficient. It's essential for precise
predictions, such as weather forecasting and simulating complex
systems.
 Moreover, it facilitates handling and analysing massive datasets,
driving data-driven decision-making in diverse fields. Embracing
computational science fosters interdisciplinary collaboration,
yielding holistic solutions to complex challenges.
 Ultimately, it enhances our quality of life through advancements
in healthcare, technology, and more.