Computer Algebra System Commands and Functions
The Computer Algebra System, or CAS, is a collection of operations that can be applied to algebraic expressions.
The calculator’s operations can be used with numbers to produce numeric results, or with symbols to produce algebraic expressions. Algebraic expressions and equations can be written using the Equation Writer too. Algebraic expressions and symbolic operations on them, called computer algebra operations, are introduced in Chapter 5 of the User’s Manual.
Further explanations of computer algebra operations, are given in the User’s Guide, whereas this part of the Advanced User’s Guide lists the computer algebra operations that can be applied to symbolic expressions, with a description of each one listed.
These operations perform tasks such as rearrangement of trigonometric and logarithmic functions, or manipulation of polynomials, series and matrices. They are referred to as the “Computer Algebra System” or the CAS. Many of the CAS operations are of particular use in Linear Algebra applications and in Vector Algebra. The CAS on the calculator allows it to provide many of the features of the Computer Algebra Systems used on laptop and desktop computers.
Note: The Computer Algebra System should not be confused with Algebraic mode, which is one of the calculator’s operating modes. The CAS works with algebraic (or symbolic) expressions, which can be entered and used in Algebraic mode or in RPN mode.
Classification of Operations
The command dictionary contains commands, functions, and analytic functions. Commands are calculator operations that can be executed from a program. Functions are commands that can be included in algebraic objects. Analytic functions are functions for which the calculator provides an inverse and a derivative. There are also four nonprogrammable operations (DBUG, NEXT, SST, and SST↓) that are included with the programmable commands as a convenience because they are used interactively while programming.
When working with functions or commands within the Equation Writer:
•When you apply a function to an expression, the function becomes part of the expression. You need to ensure that the expression is selected, then press N to apply the function to the selection.
•When you apply a command to an expression in Equation Writer, it is evaluated immediately.
The definitions of the abbreviations used for argument and result objects are contained in the following table, “Terms Used in Stack Diagrams.” Often, descriptive subscripts are added to convey more information.
Full Command and Function Reference