Welcome to Math 209, Introduction to Computer Algebra Systems. The purpose of this course is to acquaint you with some essential features common to computer algebra systems, Maple in particular. Other commonly used computer algebra systems include Mathematica and Derive. When you have successfully completed this course, I hope you'll know enough about Maple to be able to use the software in your other math and science courses.
A computer algebra system is a powerful piece of mathematical software which enables you to perform the calculations traditionally completed using a hand-held calculator. In addition, you can perform powerful SYMBOLIC calculations, plot functions in two and three dimensions, and write customized mathematical programs. Symbolic calculations enable you to carry out exact arithmetic, instead of using the rounded-off decimal calculations to which you may be accustomed.
Computer algebra systems now enjoy widespread use among scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. A number of add-on packages are available for these and other specialized disciplines.
We'll use the professional version of Maple V, Release 4, for this course. If you decide to buy Maple, consider the student version. It costs substantially less than the professional version, but offers all of the features we'll be using.