Mathematical software: Latex, Mathml, MathType, Maple?

In summary, the mathematical software that can be recommended for substitute for a calculator, doing basic calculations in classical mechanics and calculus, and writing an ebook are Python, Maple, and the IPython Notebook.
  • #1
christian0710
409
9
Which mathematical software(s) can you recommend for
1. As a substitute for a calculator (TI89): making basic graphs, regressions (linear, exponential), vectors, solving equations, showing graphs in 2d and 3d?
2. Writing an ebook with lot's of math. I'm thinking Mathml or Mathtype might be easier to learn than latex for writing an ebook,
For doing calculations in basic physics (classical mechanics) and calculus, I've heard maple is good, but is there an easier alternative? I'd imagine it has a bit of a learning curve.
 
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  • #2
wow...such a short list and it manages to be all over the place, from a free publishing ecosystem (Latex), to equation editors, to a complete expensive computer algebra environment (Maple)...

...but it never fails...people insist on asking power to do whatever they want and they want to do it easily, these two things, though, have typically been on opposite ends of the spectrum...easy to use tools can only do simple things or just a few dedicated things; powerful tools have a learning curve.

From the title, it sounded like you were asking for one thing, but the list included apples and oranges; your post, though, does list two things.

For mathematical environment where you can do regressions, vectors, solving equations, I use Python (numpy, scipy, matplotlib); you can also generate 2d and 3d graphs. For a tool along the lines of literate programming like Mathcad, where you can type text with descriptions and explanations along with evaluated math and in-line graphs, there is the IPython Notebook...you can even produce documents to share with others and you can publish to pdf.

For publishing, yes, there is Latex and a bunch of modules that you can use to do just about anything you want from included nice graphics and Python/matplotlib code that would be evaluated in the fly.

If you want easy document creation, you can drop down to something like ReStructured Text; here, you can forget most everything about latex and only limit yourself to just learning how to type equations in latex...this does not take much and it is very useful even outside the Latex ecosystem...many other software accept equations latex...like ReStructured Text, matplotlib, etc.

...and all this is free.

This is only one set of choices...there are more alternatives, of course.

gsal
 
  • #3

1. What is the difference between Latex, Mathml, MathType, and Maple?

Latex, Mathml, MathType, and Maple are all different types of mathematical software that are used for writing and displaying mathematical equations and formulas. Latex is a typesetting language that is used for creating documents with complex mathematical equations, while Mathml is an XML-based language used for describing mathematical expressions. MathType is a software application that allows users to create mathematical equations and symbols, and Maple is a computer algebra system used for solving mathematical problems and performing mathematical computations.

2. Can I use Latex, Mathml, MathType, or Maple with other types of software?

Yes, all of these mathematical software can be used with other types of software. Latex can be used with text editors, word processors, and presentation software. Mathml can be integrated into web pages and other software applications. MathType can be used with Microsoft Office and other programs that support equations, and Maple can be used with other programming languages and software tools.

3. Are there any advantages to using these mathematical software over traditional methods of writing equations?

Yes, there are several advantages to using these mathematical software. They allow for easier and more precise formatting of equations, they can handle complex mathematical expressions, and they allow for easy editing and revision of equations. They also have built-in features such as equation numbering and cross-referencing, which can be useful for organizing and referencing equations in a document.

4. Do I need to have a strong background in mathematics to use these software?

While having a strong background in mathematics can be helpful, it is not necessary to use these software. They have user-friendly interfaces and provide helpful guides and tutorials for beginners. However, a basic understanding of mathematical concepts and syntax is recommended for using these software effectively.

5. Are there any costs associated with using these mathematical software?

Some of these software, such as Latex and Mathml, are open-source and free to use. MathType and Maple, on the other hand, require a license and have a cost associated with them. However, most of these software offer free trial periods for users to test out the software before purchasing a license. Additionally, many universities and educational institutions provide access to these software for their students and faculty.

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