HP 50g Quick Start Manual page 13

Figure 8
18. Let's calculate 16/3. However, the numbers are in the wrong order on the stack for this operation. No problem, press the RIGHT
cursor key to swap their positions (see Figure 8). Now press
pressing the RIGHT cursor key to swap Levels 1 and 2, followed by the
19. Press followed by
@
20. Now let's work a more complex problem to show how RPN allows you to break down complex problems into simpler steps.
(
8.33 4 5.2
Calculate:
21.
x ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
=
4.3 3.15 2.75
To work this problem using RPN, break the larger problem down into smaller pieces. As you work through this example, watch and
note how the more complex problem becomes a series of simple parts as you work it out. Start on the inside of the parentheses and
work outwards. Begin by solving the upper part of the equation inside the square root. Type 8.33 ENTER 4
. See how the result is calculated with 8.33 and -1.2 on the stack. Press
-
Type 8.33 7.46 followed by
#
now have -9.996 and .2784 on the stack (see Figure 1 1). Press
of that The intermediate result is -35.905...
equation.
(BACKSPACE) to clear the stack.
\
( ) ) ÷ [ ( )0.32
8.33 7.46
– –
( ) ( ) 2.01 ( )
1.71
– –
. .87 appears on the stack. Type .32 followed by
-
Figure 9
and 5.33 (repeating) appears. Let's square that result by
/
key. The final result, 28.44 (repeating) appears.
Q
]
.
*
to divide those numbers. You have now solved the upper half
/
Figure 10
#
and move on to the next group of numbers.
to multiply those numbers. You
*
Getting Started
5.2 followed by
7