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Chapter 3
Calculation with real numbers
This chapter demonstrates the use of the calculator for operations and
functions related to real numbers. Operations along these lines are useful for
most common calculations in the physical sciences and engineering. The user
should be acquainted with the keyboard to identify certain functions available
in the keyboard (e.g., SIN, COS, TAN, etc.). Also, it is assumed that the
reader knows how to adjust the calculator's operation, i.e., select operating
mode (see Chapter 1), use menus and choose boxes (see Chapter 1), and
operate with variables (see Chapter 2).
Checking calculators settings
To check the current calculator and CAS settings you need to just look at the
top line in the calculator display in normal operation. For example, you may
see the following setting:
This stands for RADians for angular measurements, XYZ for Rectangular
(Cartesian) coordinates, DECimal number base, Real numbers preferred, =
means "exact" results, and 'X' is the value of the default independent variable.
Another possible listing of options could be
This stands for DEGrees as angular measurements, R∠Z for Polar coordinates,
HEXagesimal number base, Complex numbers allowed, ~ stands for
"approximate" results, and 't' as the default independent variable.
In general, this part of the display contains seven elements. Each element is
identified next under numbers 1 through 7. The possible values for each
element are shown between parentheses following the element description.
The explanation of each of those values is also shown:
1. Angle measure specification (DEG, RAD, GRD)
DEG: degrees, 360 degrees in a complete circle
RAD: radians, 2π radians in a complete circle
GRD: grades, 400 grades in a complete circle
RAD XYZ DEC R = 'X'
DEG R∠Z HEX C ~ 't'
Page 3-1
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