Math Typesetting: LaTeX & Other Options

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around various math typesetting options, particularly focusing on LaTeX, MathML, and Mathematica. Participants explore their preferences, compatibility, and usability across different platforms, as well as the implications of these choices for mathematical communication.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants identify LaTeX as a popular math typesetting option, while others mention MathML as another alternative, though with criticisms regarding its complexity.
  • One participant notes that MathWorld uses Mathematica for typesetting, suggesting a shift from LaTeX.
  • There are concerns about the compatibility of Mathematica with Linux, prompting questions about its accessibility.
  • Several participants express a preference for LaTeX over MathML, citing MathML's syntax as cumbersome and less favorable for mathematicians.
  • A suggestion is made for a LaTeX to MathML converter to facilitate easier transitions between the two formats.
  • Participants discuss the possibility that MathWorld altered its articles to use Mathematica symbols instead of LaTeX, indicating a perceived change in presentation style.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the usability and effectiveness of MathML compared to LaTeX, with no consensus reached on which is superior. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of MathWorld's switch to Mathematica.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the lack of clarity on the specific reasons behind MathWorld's transition from LaTeX to Mathematica and the varying experiences with compatibility across different operating systems.

amcavoy
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In general (not specifically for forums), what are the different math typesettings? I know there is LaTeX, but I have also seen something that looks different on sites such as MathWorld. Does anyone know what it is?
 
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probably MathML which is a horrid mess to look at. it is an XML language so it has lots of open and close tags that are nested.

sorry, but I like the much more consice \alpha^2 \times \beta^2 = \gamma^2

[tex]\alpha^2 \times \beta^2 = \gamma^2[/tex]
 
Mathworld uses Mathematica to typeset its pages nowadays. For some odd reason they downgraded from LaTeX...
 
Ok thanks. Is Mathematica compatible with Linux?
 
Wolfram's probably pushing for sales.
 
ComputerGeek said:
bleh, MathML is to much syntax for too little return.
Yes, you can't help feeling that the W3C were far more concerned about it looking like their other languages than actually making it easy for mathematicians.
 
Zurtex said:
Yes, you can't help feeling that the W3C were far more concerned about it looking like their other languages than actually making it easy for mathematicians.

What is needed is a LaTeX to MathML converter. then you could have a simple little app that you type out your formula in latex and copy and past the mathML
 
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  • #11
So MathWorld actually went back and changed their articles (from LaTeX to Mathematica sybols)? I could have sworn it looked different a while back...
 

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