Calculating ln2 with Maclaurian Series

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  • Thread starter Thread starter cragar
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around how calculators compute the natural logarithm of 2 (ln2), specifically whether they utilize Maclaurin series for this calculation. The scope includes conceptual understanding of numerical methods and the use of calculators in mathematics.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if calculators compute ln2 using Maclaurin series.
  • Another participant suggests it is likely that calculators do use Maclaurin series.
  • A different participant clarifies that calculators do not typically use Maclaurin series for functions like logarithms, citing a general class of numerical algorithms instead.
  • There is an expression of uncertainty regarding the specific algorithms used by calculators.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether calculators use Maclaurin series for computing ln2, indicating a lack of consensus on the methods employed by calculators.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention a lack of familiarity with the specific algorithms used in calculators, and there is an acknowledgment of the limitations in understanding how calculators perform these computations.

cragar
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so when i type ln2 into my calculator does it compute ln2 using a maclaurian series?
 
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yes, very likely. but why are you using a calculator :P
 
im not , i just want to know how the calculator comes up with the answer.
 
When you do mathematics you don't use calculators.
 
cragar, sorry for the rather silly answers you have got. No, calculator (and computers) do NOT typically use MacLaurin seiries for trig functions, exponentials, etc. I thought they did for a long time, then ran across a website that talked about a general class of numerical algorighms that are used for that. I had bookmarked the site but that was years (and a couple of computers ago) and I can't find it now. I will continue looking.
 
o thanks
 

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