The Howdy Glossary

FreeFem++ is an open-source programming language designed for solving partial differential equations (PDEs) using the finite element method. It features a high-level matrix-language and easy-to-use syntax, enabling users to define both linear and non-linear problems within a structured environment that includes various finite elements solvers and built-in mesh generators. Its adaptive mesh refinement capabilities make it particularly valuable in scientific computing, commonly employed in physics and engineering research for efficient prototyping of numerical methods without dealing with low-level implementation intricacies.

FreeFem++ originated from the efforts of researchers and developers in the Mathematics and Computer Science fields in the early 1990s. Over time, it has been maintained and enhanced by numerous contributors from its dedicated user community. This collaborative effort has transformed FreeFem++ into a powerful tool for solving PDEs using the finite element method, offering unique features such as high-level matrix-language, intuitive syntax, ready-to-use solvers, built-in mesh generators, and adaptability to handle complex geometries efficiently.

In comparison to other software packages like FEniCS, Deal.II, and COMSOL Multiphysics that also solve PDEs using the finite element method, FreeFem++ stands out for its accessible high-level syntax aimed at quick prototyping within scientific computing environments. While FEniCS focuses on automated solutions procedures and Deal.II emphasizes adaptive methods with advanced customization options in C++, COMSOL Multiphysics provides a comprehensive platform tailored for multiphysics phenomena simulations. These distinctions allow users to select tools based on their specific needs—whether ease of use with FreeFem++, robust automation with FEniCS, advanced control with Deal.II or comprehensive multiphysics capabilities with COMSOL—highlighting each tool's competitive strengths in different aspects of computational modeling.