The
Role of Mathematics in Amplifying Science Research
Dr.Juan Meza
High Performance
Computing Research
Department Head
ABSTRACT
Computer modeling and simulation of physical processes has taken
on an increasingly larger role in scientific research. In fact, computational
science has become what some people term the "third pillar" of
science along with theory and experimentation. This increased role is due
partly to the tremendous growth in computational power. More importantly,
however, the increased role is a direct result of a better understanding of the
underlying mathematics and the development of improved algorithms. Examples
from wide-ranging fields such as nanoscience,
biology, climate modeling and astrophysics point not only to the role that
mathematics plays in modeling physical processes but also in predicting new
phenomena. In this talk, I will discuss several areas where mathematics has had
a profound impact on science, and the role that mathematics has played in
"amplifying" the research.
Level of the audience: general audience