FYS4650 – Numerical Simulations of Plasma Using Particles

Course content

The course introduces the particle-in-cell method of plasma simulations using particles and presents with the examples how it can be used for studies of different plasma phenomena at kinetic scales.

It also gives an overview of other methods for simulations of plasma and their applicability.

Learning outcome

After completing the course you will:

  • have a good knowledge on the algorithms, numerical stability, limitations and advantages of the particle-in-cell method for simulating plasma.
  • have a good overview of other methods for simulation of plasma.
  • know how to design a basic particle-in-cell code.
  • be able to execute experiments using particle-in-cell codes.

Admission to the course

Students admitted at UiO must?apply for courses?in Studentweb. Students enrolled in other master's degree programmes can, on application, be admitted to the course if this is cleared by their own study programme.

Nordic citizens and applicants residing in the Nordic countries may?apply to take this course as a single course student.

If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about?admission requirements and procedures for international applicants.

Overlapping courses

Teaching

A combination of lectures (in person and pre-recorded), self-study and group seminars.

The course may also be given in parallel in Japan, in collaboration with Kobe University; if so, an online component for lectures and group seminars can be expected. In that case, the instruction and exam language would be English.

A home assignment must be approved before you can sit for the the final exam.

Regulations for mandatory activities can be found here.

Examination

  • Final oral exam which counts 100 % towards the final?grade.

This course has mandatory exercises that must be approved before you can sit the final?exam.

It will also be counted as one of the three attempts to sit the exam for this course if you sit the exam for the following course: FYS9650 – Numerical Simulations of Plasma Using Particles

Examination support material

No examination support material is allowed.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a pass/fail scale. Read more about?the grading system.

Resit an examination

Students who can document a valid reason for absence from the regular examination are offered a?postponed exam?at the beginning of the next semester.

New examinations?are offered at the beginning of the next semester for students who do not successfully complete the exam during the previous semester.

We do not offer a re-scheduled exam for students who withdraw during the exam.

More about examinations at UiO

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.

Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Dec. 11, 2025 3:43:13 AM

Facts about this course

Level
Master
Credits
5
Teaching
Spring

If the course is offered, a minimum of four students is required for ordinary lectures to take place. If less than four students participate, an exam will be given, but one should not expect ordinary teaching

Examination
Spring
Teaching language
Norwegian (English on request)