Scientific Computing

From the beginning computers were used as tools for science.  The conception of computers came from the mistakes of men.  Whenever a human does a calculation there is a chance for error.   This is especially true when there a numerous values being calculated to precise significant figures repeatedly.  To solve the problem of humans making errors the first known computer was conceived in a so called proof of concept, The Babbagemachine.   While it was not built until the 1990s, The Babbage machine was important because it had the idea of creating a device to compute values for systematically without using a person to perform steps of the calculation.  Following steps created by a person, the device could perfectly run and calculate correct values.  With this same idea computes were designed.  Allowing programmers to give it a set of instructions, computers were able to solve complex mathematical problems, quickly and accurately.  The first computers were used primarily by scientists to perform big calculations.   In an effort to machines more efficient programming languages became designed for calculations.  FORTRAN, one of the most recognized programming languages ever, was developed and is still used for scientific calculations.  FORTRAN allowed scientists to use a computer for easy calculations.

Today there are even more language and programs developed to make computing easier for scientific research.  Everything from MathLab for calculation to AutoCad for 3D designing, computers continue to be an important tool for scientists.  It would take a person years to do the same amount of calculations that a laptop could now do in a few hours. 

Although computers are becoming more mainstream and household tools, they will still always be most appreciated by scientists.  Scientist’s created the computer, only they know of its possibilities.

Babbage Machine