Chapter Contents

• Functions and Graphs
• 1. Introduction to Functions
• 2. Functions from Verbal Statements
• 3. Rectangular Coordinates
• 4. The Graph of a Function
• Domain and Range of a Function
• Comparison calculator BMI - BAI
• 5. Graphing Using a Computer Algebra System
• Online graphing calculator (1): Plot your own graph (JSXGraph)
• Online graphing calculator (2): Plot your own graph (SVG)
• 6. Graphs of Functions Defined by Tables of Data
• 7. Continuous and Discontinuous Functions
• 8. Split Functions
• 9. Even and Odd Functions
• Functions and Graphs Problem Solver

• Comments, Questions?

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5. Graphs Using a Computer Algebra System

We now have many tools which can help us to do mathematics.

All of your mathematics subjects require you to draw graphs. It is good to do lots of practise. Another way is to get some useful tools.

Once you start using a Computer Algebra System you will find that it changes your whole view on mathematics. It takes a lot of the tedium out of algebra and frees up time to think about what you are doing.

Some of the many commercial CASs available:

• Matlab - an industry leader (and expensive)
• MathCad - a sophisticated CAS (also expensive)
• Mathematica - also very sophisticated and also has a Web output. The best way to access Mathematica (for free) is via Wolfram|Alpha.
• Scientific Notebook (used in Interactive Mathematics. See SNB Information) and the related product Scientific Workplace
• LiveMath (used in Interactive Mathematics - see LiveMath Highlights (This product is no longer under development)

Open Source Computer Algebra Systems

For those of you on a tight budget (aren't we all?), here is a list of open source computer algebra systems.

Graphics Calculators

Graphics calculators have become quite sophisticated, but usually have small screens with poor resolution, making it difficult to see details in the graph. However, they are certainly better than nothing!