MAPLE
Introduction to MAPLE
Maple, first released in 1981 byWaterloo Maple,Inc., http://www.maplesoft.com/
is a system for doing mathematics on a computer. Maple combines symbolic
manipulation, numerical mathematics, outstanding graphics, and a sophisticated programming language. Because of its versatility, Maple has established itself as the computer algebra system of choice for many computer users including commercial and government scientists and engineers mathematics, science, and engineering teachers and researchers, and students enrolled in mathematics, science, and
engineering courses. However, due to its special nature and sophistication, beginning users need to be aware of the special syntax required to make Maple perform in the way intended. You will find that calculations and sequences of calculations most frequently used by beginning users are discussed in detail along with many typical examples. In addition, the comprehensive index not only lists a variety of topics but also cross-references commands with frequently used options. Maple by Example serves as a valuable tool and reference to the beginning user of Maple as well as to the more sophisticated user, with specialized needs.
engineering courses. However, due to its special nature and sophistication, beginning users need to be aware of the special syntax required to make Maple perform in the way intended. You will find that calculations and sequences of calculations most frequently used by beginning users are discussed in detail along with many typical examples. In addition, the comprehensive index not only lists a variety of topics but also cross-references commands with frequently used options. Maple by Example serves as a valuable tool and reference to the beginning user of Maple as well as to the more sophisticated user, with specialized needs.
Getting Started with Maple
We begin by introducing the essentials of Maple. The examples presented are
taken from algebra, trigonometry, and calculus topics that you are familiar with to
assist you in becoming acquainted with the Maple computer algebra system.
Five Basic Rules of Maple Syntax
1. The arguments of all functions (both built-in ones and ones that you define) are given in parentheses (...). Brackets [...] are used for grouping operations:
vectors, matrices, and lists are given in brackets.
2. A semicolon (;) or colon (:) must be included at the end of each command.
Maple does not display the result when a colon is included at the end of a
command. Never name a user-defined object with the same name as that of a
built-in Maple object.
3. Multiplication is represented by an asterisk, *. Enter 2*x*y to evaluate 2xy
not 2xy.
4. Powers are denoted by a ˆ. Enter (8*xˆ3)ˆ(1/3) to evaluate (8x3)1/3 =
81/3(x3)1/3 = 2x instead of 8*xˆ1/3, which returns 8x/3.
5. Maple follows the order of operations exactly. Thus, entering (1+x)ˆ1/x
returns (1+x)1
x while (1+x)ˆ(1/x) returns (1+x)1/x. Similarly, entering xˆ3*x
returns x3 · x = x4 while entering xˆ(3*x) returns x3x.
Remark: If you get no response or an incorrect response, you may have entered or executed the command incorrectly. In some cases, the amount of memory allocated to Maple can cause a crash. Like people, Maple is not perfect and errors can occur.