Calculator that solves differential equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding online calculators capable of solving integral and differential equations. Participants share their experiences with various tools and express their thoughts on the role of calculators in understanding physics and calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses regret over selling their TI-89 calculator, suggesting it could have been useful for solving equations.
  • Wolfram|Alpha is recommended by several participants as a tool for solving integral and differential equations.
  • Concerns are raised about the adequacy of Wolfram|Alpha's manual.
  • Another participant mentions that while calculators can help, understanding calculus is still important for doing physics.
  • Maxima is suggested as a free symbolic calculator option.
  • There is a playful exchange about the appropriateness of relying on calculators for answers in physics.
  • Participants discuss specific input formats for Wolfram|Alpha to solve integrals.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the utility of online calculators like Wolfram|Alpha and Maxima, but there is a debate about the extent to which one should rely on these tools versus developing a solid understanding of calculus and physics.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that while calculators can assist in verifying answers, they may not solve all problems, indicating a need for foundational skills in calculus.

Femme_physics
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I've been beating myself for selling my TI-89 2 years ago, it might have been able to do it.

I am looking for an online calculator that can solve integral equations and differential equations. Any such exist?
 
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It certainly needs a better manual.. thanks anyway
 
I can cheat my way to the answers now, ILS ;)
 
Whaaat!
But... but... you're not supposed to.
 
Let's be fair though, doing physics isn't doing calculus...it's figuring out the physics! So...can I? Please?
 
Maxima is a nice symbolic calculator... and it's free.
 
Femme_physics said:
Let's be fair though, doing physics isn't doing calculus...it's figuring out the physics! So...can I? Please?

Hummf.
Just try not to rely blindly on it. :-p

TBH, doing physics does consist of a lot of calculus, and such an online calculator won't solve all problems.
Some skill and understanding of calculus is usually helpful.

The calculator is great to verify answers and skip over long dreadful calculations though.
 
  • #10
Alright alright :) Thank you. You're the best calculus teacher anyway. Did I mention how awesome it is you've stuck around? You've even more than double my post count now! I remember the days when I was trying to compete with you!
 
  • #11
Hmmm..what do I type in for the other part of the equation in my other thread? Tried "integral dv from vo to v" but something doesn't seem right..
 
  • #12
Femme_physics said:
Alright alright :) Thank you. You're the best calculus teacher anyway. Did I mention how awesome it is you've stuck around? You've even more than double my post count now! I remember the days when I was trying to compete with you!

Yes, I recall that I was behind you, came a little closer, only to see you jumping ahead again.

Now, I've just gone past 5000! :)
Femme_physics said:
Hmmm..what do I type in for the other part of the equation in my other thread? Tried "integral dv from vo to v" but something doesn't seem right..

Try: "integral dv".
 
Last edited:
  • #13
Thanks ILS :)

Yes, I recall that I was behind you, came a little closer, only to see you jumping ahead again.

Now, I've just gone past 5000! :)

Ohh just you wait...just you wait...
 

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