Dr. George S. Young
Department of Meteorology, Penn State University

ABSTRACT

"Computer Languages: Choices for Accelerating Research"

Computer languages are the key tool that enables scientists to achieve research progress through numerically intensive methods such as modeling and the analysis of large datasets. Yet, more often than not, comparatively little attention is given to selection of the language to use for a particular project. This choice can be crucial, however, as the capabilities, computational speed, and ease of coding can vary greatly between languages. Moreover, the entire approach to problem formulation and the subsequent programming differs significantly between language families. Only by understanding these differences can one achieve maximum computational progress with the minimum commitment of computer and researcher time.