Overview on Scientific Computing

The quotation above encapsulates the role scientific computing is expected to play now. Introduction of calculus in seventeenth century provided revolutionary changes in understanding the physical world by analysis and quantification in various branches of science. Prehistory of computing begins with activities in two fronts.

Charles Babbage (1791–1871) laid out detailed plans of mechanical calculating machines: (i) Difference Engines (1821) to construct mathematical tables (without incurring human error!) and (ii) Analytical Engines for the more ambitious task of performing any mathematical task with the help of programmed punched cards. Scaled version of Difference Engine was made during his lifetime. Analytical Engines remained at the conceptual level, though many of its features have found place in modern computers.

On the other hand, progresses were made in developing numerical methods. Basic advances in numerical techniques made in previous centuries encouraged Richardson [225] to seek a solution of system of equations for weather forecasting using a desk calculator. Results were not particularly encouraging from this pioneering effort, but the seeds were sown for what was to become a major initiative!