Practical Use of Mathcad(R): Solving Mathematical Problems with a Computer Algebra System

This book, which is a rrMsion and extension of the original edition publi- shed in 1996 (see [2D with the German title Mathematik mit MA'nfCAD (Mathematics Using MA'nfCAD), discusses the use of the program system MAlHCAD(R) to solve mathematical problems with computers.

The book is based on the current MA'nfCAD Version 8 Professional for WINDOWS 95/98 (see [5D.

Whereas MAlHCAD and MATLAB (see [4D were originally conceived as purely systems for numerical mathematical calculations, the more recent versions of both products have licensed a minimum variant of the symbolic processor of the MAPLE computer algebra system for exact (symbolic) calcu- lations.

Thus, MAlHCAD has been developed to be an equal partner to the estab- lished computer algebra systems AXIOM, DERIVE, MACSYMA, MAPLE, MA- lHEMATICA, MuPAD and REDUCE.

However, because these systems con- tain numerical methods as well, they are no longer just pure computer alge- bra systems.

Consequently, MAlHCAD can also be deSignated as being a computer alge- bra system (or just: system).

MATHCAD possesses some advantages: * Better numerical capabilities more than compensate for the somewhat limited capabilities provided for exact (symbolic) calculations. * The calculations are performed in the MAlHCAD worksheet using the usual mathematical symbols (standard notation). * Thanks to the superior layout capabilities in the worksheet, MAlHCAD can be used to create treatises directly. * All calculations can be performed using units of measurement.