Computational science, or scientific computing, is an interdisciplinary field that uses advanced computing capabilities to understand and solve complex problems using numerical methods and algorithms. It is a field where computational experimentation can substitute for physical experimentation, provide greater insight to the underlying principles at work, and lead to the discovery of new methods and techniques for tackling difficult problems. Computational scientists work on problems involving significant complexity, such as those related to the analysis of large sets of data or those with very specific boundary conditions.
Computational science involves the application of computer technology and techniques to mathematical and scientific problems. It includes the design and development of algorithms and software, the interpretation and presentation of results, and the analysis of data generated. Computational scientists make use of numerical techniques, often using computers, for tackling complex problems that involve mathematical modeling, large-scale numerical simulation, data synthesis, and data analysis.
Computational science is related to computational engineering, which is a field focused on the application of computational modeling and simulation techniques to engineering problems. The two fields often balance each other, with computational engineering focusing on the mathematical and engineering aspects and computational science focusing on the implementation of mathematical models and simulations.
Computational scientists are often employed in a variety of different fields, including engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, economics, social sciences, and more. As a result, they must be proficient in a range of disciplines including mathematics, statistics, computer programming, and simulation. The ability to use multiple computing platforms to solve problems is highly sought after.
In recent years, computational science has become increasingly important in many scientific and engineering disciplines. This is due to the advances in computing power, computational methods, storage capacity, and networks which have made it possible for scientists and engineers to undertake more complex simulations and analysis than before. As a result, many research projects and efforts now rely on computational science to facilitate large-scale experiments or simulations, or to analyze data.
