layout: schedule published: true date: ‘2026-10-13’ —

Physical Modeling - Day 3

Repository: https://github.com/colbrydi/physical-modeling

Agenda (80 minutes)

1. 10 min - Check-in and review of the wave-model workflow
2. 20 min - Discuss finite-element tools, model choice, and reusable software
3. 35 min - Guided work in 03-Finite_Element_Analysis.ipynb and the wave-model scripts
4. 15 min - Review testing and execution questions

Learning Goals

By the end of this class, you should be able to:

• Explain why model choice and discretization matter for physical simulations.
• Connect a notebook prototype to reusable scripts and basic tests.
• Identify what evidence is needed to support a simulation result.

In-Class Focus

This session connects physical-modeling methods to research software practice. We will consider how a prototype becomes a reusable simulation that can be tested, documented, and run beyond the notebook environment.

Use the repository as the primary working reference:

• Repository: https://github.com/colbrydi/physical-modeling
• Notebook: 03-Finite_Element_Analysis.ipynb
• Supporting code: wave2d.py, run_wave2d.py, and tests/test_wave2d.py

Focus on the connection between the modeled system, the software structure, and the checks that make the workflow more trustworthy.

Before Next Class

• Finish any remaining notebook or script work from today.
• Identify one test or validation check that matters for the model.
• Bring one question about interpreting or trusting a simulation result.

Daily Check-in and Reflection

Daily Check-in Form