Computer science Definition and 585 Threads

Computer science is the study of algorithmic processes, computational machines and computation itself. As a discipline, computer science spans a range of topics from theoretical studies of algorithms, computation and information to the practical issues of implementing computational systems in hardware and software.Its fields can be divided into theoretical and practical disciplines. For example, the theory of computation concerns abstract models of computation and general classes of problems that can be solved using them, while computer graphics or computational geometry emphasize more specific applications. Algorithms and data structures have been called the heart of computer science. Programming language theory considers approaches to the description of computational processes, while computer programming involves the use of them to create complex systems. Computer architecture describes construction of computer components and computer-operated equipment. Artificial intelligence aims to synthesize goal-orientated processes such as problem-solving, decision-making, environmental adaptation, planning and learning found in humans and animals. A digital computer is capable of simulating various information processes. The fundamental concern of computer science is determining what can and cannot be automated. Computer scientists usually focus on academic research. The Turing Award is generally recognized as the highest distinction in computer sciences.

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  1. I

    Engineering Digital and analogue electronic

    I don’t know how to sketch so I really need help
  2. G

    Math Should I do a computer science or math major?

    I am currently pursuing a computer science degree and am considering if I should switch to a math major. I just finished sophomore year of college , but I am transferring universities, and the way the credits transfer, it would take me 3 more years to get the CS degree but only 2 more for the...
  3. S

    Moving from Computer Science to a PhD in Computational Astrophysics

    Hi I am planning to do phd in computational astrophysics or planetary science or scientific computing simulation (least preferred in case i am not allowed to the other two). Right now I have bachelors in computer science and planning to do masters in the same. My query is should i join...
  4. K

    Programs Associate Degree in Computer Science?

    I wanted to know has anyone here heard about associate degrees in computer science or software/systems engineering and if so are there worth pursuing?
  5. garthenar

    Fixing Error: (vlog-7) Failed to Open Design Unit File

    Homework Statement:: None. This is part of implementing a project and not an actual question. It's a technical problem or equipment failure. Relevant Equations:: The Code I get is; Error: (vlog-7) Failed to open design unit file "Waveform.vwf.vt" in read mode. [Mentor Note -- moved to the...
  6. J

    Other How hard is it to get into a CS PhD compared to physics?

    Hello guys (and girls), I'm from Europe and I was wondering whether any of you know how hard it is to get into the top US CS PhD programs as compared to getting into physics. I think I've once read on Quora that getting into engineering is way harder since this area of research does not receive...
  7. kolleamm

    Other Computer Science Career Path Help

    Hi everyone, Recently I finished my Bachelors in Computer Science, and since then I've been mostly stuck thinking were to go next from here. I've applied to a lot of software jobs online but haven't had any luck. It seems to me that although what I learned in school seems useful, things such as...
  8. C

    Other I need career advice please -- Computer Science vs. Physics

    > In case you find this post too long, you can find the question written in bold under the Question section. Note:there are additional questions under the Additional Questions section. I am a computer science major, I got into computer science because at some point in the past I was very...
  9. cellist542

    Programs Engineering Triple Major (Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Science)

    I am currently an ambitious sophomore in high school aspiring to become an engineer. Generally, I love physics, chemistry, biology, and I'm interested in computer science. I am interested in aeronautical, biomedical, chemical, electrical, environmental, computer, mechanical, materials, nuclear...
  10. fissifizz

    Physics From Software Engineering to Astrophysics Grad School

    Greetings everyone. I am an undergrad currently majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Physics. I entered college as a physics student because I wanted to pursue astrophysics as a career. After my first 1.5 years of courses and a summer research experience, I concluded that a career in...
  11. DifferentialGalois

    Studying Value of learning the Theory of Computation and Automata

    This may be a somewhat disorderly, unplanned out question, but nonetheless, I don’t know whether or not there exist any suitable academic advising websites that would be suitable for posting such. Would it be worthwhile investing time into learning theory of computation and automata via Neso...
  12. E

    (This is not a question) Interdisciplinarity

    Hi! I'm a Computer Science & Engg. BSc. graduate from Paraguay, having followed also 1 1/2 years of Psychology paralelly. My interest is nothing but understanding the universe, in all its shapes and flavors: physical, mathematical, biological, or our subjective one, etc. Particularly, the...
  13. N

    I need some help with Magnetic Fields & Computer Science

    Lets say we have a Direct Current (not an alternating current) going through a wire ; so there is a steady-state magnetic field created around the wire. Then let's say we move some object into the magnetic field that disturbs the field. . My question is : How do we/they get information...
  14. bagasme

    Learning American English for Computer Science

    Hello, When using computer programs (such as Microsoft Office), the default User Interface (UI) language is American English. Since this variant of English is common on computer programs, should I learn American English as ESL for Computer Science? Cheers, Bagas
  15. P

    What specs should I look for in a laptop

    After completing my sophomore year at college as a Physics major and I realized that the laptop I currently have is not able to keep up with the demand I put it under for school. The laptop I currently have has a <2 hour battery life and has been known to crap out (didn't know how else to...
  16. bagasme

    Courses Computer Science Major: Take Calculus-based Physics or Algebra-based?

    Hello, I'm currently not taking college for lack of financial support and inability to living outside my residence town. If I take college, I will majoring into Computer Science (CS). Beside math subjects (calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, etc.), I will also take introductory...
  17. E

    Find the atom using a quantum oracle

    My attempted solutions was, for example let's say we have 4 atoms, and if i ask the oracle about any two atoms that are connected by edge, i can narrow done some possibilities to two atoms. I'm still not sure where i am going with my solution, but if any of you can think this through and come up...
  18. Z

    Engineering Senior mechanical engineering student With a 3.5 GPA but I really hate it

    Hello guys, Long story short i am a senior mechanical engineering student (graduating next year). But i do not like my major, at first i did not matter to me what i choose or what i study. i did not know what i like and mechanical engineering seemed a good option to me in terms of good job...
  19. J

    Should Physics Majors Learn Object-Oriented Programming?

    Would physics majors benefit from learning how to do Object Oriented programming?
  20. J

    Courses Integrating Computer Science into Modern Physics: A Necessity or a Bonus?

    To what extent do modern physicists need to know computer science?
  21. Alanay

    Courses Combining Physics and Computer Science: Is it Possible?

    I love both Computer Science and Physics, I find Physics a lot more fun to learn about but I also really enjoy programming and creating things that I can see in action. I am a pretty adept programmer in F#, while the language has a very high salary there are very few jobs. I have been accepted...
  22. Gjmdp

    Is Artificial Intelligence a subfield of Computer Science?

    At first glance it does seem obvious that AI is a subfield of Computer Science for that programming is essential in the building of intelligent systems. However following that reasoning, Physics could be classified as a branch of Mathematics since Calculus is essential for its understanding. AI...
  23. J

    Job Skills Computer Science and Physics

    I’m mildly interested in becoming a theoretical physicist. Assuming that I continue to do so, would it be a good idea for me to begin taking compsci classes in my undergrad, or can I pick up all the requisite compsci skills in my graduate without any trouble?
  24. M

    Dynamic Programming - Restoring white space between words in a file

    All the white space among words in a text file was lost. Write a C++ program which using dynamic programming to get all of the possible original text files (i.e. with white spaces between words) and rank them in order of likelihood with the best possible runtime. You have a text file of...
  25. hnnhcmmngs

    Executing code, which statements are true?

    Homework Statement Question 1: def convert(degrees): degrees += 273.15 return degrees degrees = 10 print(convert(degrees)) Which of these statements are true after the code executes? (There may be more than 1 correct answer) a) The value of degrees in the main namespace is 283.15...
  26. jishnu

    Other Computer Science Books: Must-Reads for Students

    Hi guys, Can anyone suggest me some of the must read books for a computer science student for learning new things and improving the programming skills! Thanks in advance [emoji3531]
  27. V

    Schools Applying for Physics Grad School without Physics Major?

    I've always wanted to be a Physicist and become a researcher. I'm particularly interested in particle physics and quantum computing. I have BS Computer Engineering and MS Computer Science degrees and have been working as a programmer for more than 5 years. How should I go towards a Physics...
  28. astroman707

    Programs Is a 2nd major in comp sci useful in computational physics?

    I'm majoring in physics and I'm planning on pursuing computational astrophysics in graduate school. Will a second major in computer science/programming look good to graduate schools, and/or will it give me great advantages in the field of computational astrophysics or astronomy?
  29. Lapse

    Integral for Current through an Inductor -- Not Working

    Homework Statement [/B] Calculate, and plot along with (on the same plot) the voltage seen below, the current flowing in the following circuit using the integral relationship between the voltage across an inductor and the current through the inductor. Verify your hand calculations and plot...
  30. Lapse

    Engineering Design Circuit to Convert Current to Voltage | LTSpice Also

    Hello, We just finished up midterms and I actually did well--got an A. However, somehow between the midterm (class before last) and last class we jumped to creating a circuit with a diode. I am pretty lost. 1. Homework Statement Homework Equations Voltage / Current = ResistanceThe Attempt...
  31. gibberingmouther

    Programs Physics Minor with Computer Science

    I'd have to take 3 extra courses to qualify for the minor. Is it worth it? Yes, I'm majoring in computer science and over halfway through my bachelor's. I'm learning from the current course I'm taking that the online homework - and to some degree the labs - really helps with comprehension. I...
  32. matqkks

    I When was the first time the abbreviation "RSA" appeared?

    <Moderator's note: Edited and URL removed due to potential copyright violation.> When was the first publication of the abbreviation RSA (Rivest, Shamir, Adleman) because it does not appear in an article by Martin Gardner of 1977.
  33. opus

    Testing Tips for computer science exams?

    Well I just took my midterm for Intro Computer Science and got a 59%. This is very frustrating because I've received 100% on all assignments and I feel like I am starting to get an understanding of the subject. However, this isn’t like mathematics or science where you can grind problems. It...
  34. Lapse

    Engineering Question About A Particular Circuit in LTSpice

    I am simply attempting to design a circuit in LTSpice. We just started on dependent sources. I am having trouble designing this guy here: Here's what I've got: What does this error mean? What do I need to change to make this circuit work?
  35. L

    Schools Pair CS/Math or another natural science with Physics?

    Generally speaking, would it be better to pair a CS/Math minor/minor or minor/major (respectively) with physics or an additional natural science major (e.g., biochem, biophysics, chemistry) with physics? I plan on going to grad school to either pursue a physics Ph.D. or a master's in...
  36. P

    Programs Should I do a 'dual' masters degree?

    At my university they offer a program where you can pick two science disciplines and do a sort of 'half and half' masters degree. My B.S. is in Physics, and I somewhat want to do material science, which also directly relates to my current job and undergrad focus, but both mathematics and...
  37. B

    Efficient 2D Array Switch Algorithm for Lights Off in n x m Rooms | C++ Function

    Homework Statement A house has n x m rooms (n and m natural numbers, n>=2 and m>=2) and is represented as a 2 dimensional Array with n rows(0 to n-1)and m columns(0 to m-1).The room at line i( 0 <= i <= n-1) and column j ( 0 <= j <= m-1 ) is identified by the pair of numbers (i,j).All rooms...
  38. K

    What Are the Best Ways to Contribute and Exchange New Algorithms?

    I am someone who likes to come up with new algorithms. Is there a platform to exchange such ideas. Any mailing lists to advance computer science? Perhaps there are programs that accept new algorithms. Sorry if this is a vague post but this is a broad topic.
  39. U

    Engineering Should I major in Computer Science, Physics, or Aerospace Engineering?

    << Mentor Note -- two threads on same subject merged. Please do not cross-post across forums here >> I am passionate about Physics, Computer Science, and Aerospace Engineering. I am about to start my freshman year of college in the fall and have yet to decide which would be the most reliable...
  40. T

    Programs Computer science and physics double major with math minor?

    Is it managable?What are your thougths?First post btw.
  41. pairofstrings

    I System to represent objects in Mathematics

    Hi. Usually, Computer Programmers use Flow Charts, Algorithms, or UML diagrams to build a great software or system. In the same manner, in Mathematics, what do Mathematicians use to build a great system that they want to build. Category Theory is at the highest level of abstraction; then...
  42. M

    Programs Best complementary degree for computer science?

    What would be the best degree to have along side a degree in computer science? I am thinking it is either physics or mathematics. My interests involve, robotics, artificial general intelligence, 3D graphics, computer vision, neural nets, file compression and aerospace engineering(It’s an...
  43. ScienceGuy42

    Engineering Does an astrophysicist (PhD or post-doc) need computer engineering?

    Does an astrophysicist in research areas such as cosmic structure and evolution, galactic archaeology, and/or black hole phenomena require extensive skills (i.e. undergraduate degree) in computer systems engineering/computer engineering? The idea is to do a combined degree with computer...
  44. Saqib Ali

    Other MOOCs vs Textbooks for computer science students

    https://backdoorgraduteschooladmissions.quora.com/Mastering-lower-division-mathematics-courses-especially-for-computer-science-majors The above link has a list of free online material to learn a lot of the math required in computer science. I'm already a 4th year undergrad, but I didn't learn...
  45. Saqib Ali

    Where Can I Start with Self-Learning Math for Data Science and Machine Learning?

    My passion is the environment, and I want to apply data science and machine learning to climate data. I didn't learn much from my math courses throughout and haven't taken a physics or chemistry course since high school. I want some guidance on how to self-learn math starting from Calculus...
  46. L

    Courses How important is physics in computer science?

    I was looking at assist.org. A website for community college students that lists the courses you need to take at a CC in order to transfer to a UC or CSU. I'm a CompSci major, and realized that everyone of the articulation agreements required 3-4 quarters of Physics. I'm just wondering, why is...
  47. T

    Programs PHD in Computer Science with a concentration in Chaos Theory

    Hi everyone, I am working on a second bachelor's degree in Computer Science, and am hoping to enter a Phd program in fall of 2019. Recently, I have taken an interest in Chaos Theory and was wondering if it is possible to do research in the field in the Computer Science department, or if it is...
  48. Grands

    Engineering Differences between Computer engineering and Computer Science?

    Hi Which are the mains difference between Computer engineering and Computer Science? Which different kind of work do a computer engineer instead a computer scientist ?
  49. O

    Other Computer Science: Github vs. Personal Website?

    Hey all, I am narrowing down on my final semesters in college this coming year. I'd like to start making my larger (and better) projects available to potential employers. I was wondering if Github or making a personal website would be better? I'm not going for a front-end development job, so I...
  50. S

    Creating a Wind Tunnel Simulation: Where to Begin?

    Hi everyone, I am currently doing my Computer Science A-Level project and I'm thinking of simulating a wind tunnel but I am also having a really hard time figuring out how to start. I am programming it in Visual Basic (XNA) and using Blender for models. Could anyone guide me in the right...
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