Mathematics
and Computer Science Speaker Series
California State University, Stanislaus
Date: Friday, May 1,
2009
Time: 4:00 - 5:00 p.m
Room: N-104
Speaker: Chris De Vries
Title: Taking Chances: Using Random Numbers for Integration,
Minimization, and Error Analysis.
Abstract:
Physics often presents one with complex problems, and although
there are usually elegant solutions, sometimes it can be easier to jump
in with reckless abandon and a large supply of random numbers. In this
talk I will present basic problem-solving techniques which make use of
pure random, pseudo-random, and quasi-random numbers. These shall
include techniques for numerical integration,
minimization/optimization, and propagation of errors through complex or
nonlinear systems. A basic overview of probability distribution
functions will also be included, including how to generate a Normal
distribution from a uniform distribution of random numbers.