Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on how to plot functions involving arbitrary constants in Mathematica, specifically using the example of the function r(psi) = a(1 - eCos(psi). The scope includes technical explanations and practical applications of plotting in Mathematica.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation, Experimental/applied
Main Points Raised
- One participant asks how to plot a function with arbitrary constants in Mathematica.
- Another participant suggests that plotting a function with arbitrary constants directly is not feasible, but proposes using Manipulate to vary the constants while plotting.
- A third participant introduces the idea of defining dimensionless variables to absorb some constants, noting that while 'a' can be treated as a scale, 'e' is dimensionless and cannot be absorbed in the same way.
- The third participant provides an example of using Manipulate with a dimensionless variable to plot the function.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the feasibility of plotting functions with arbitrary constants directly, with differing views on the use of Manipulate and dimensionless variables.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations regarding the treatment of constants and the definitions of dimensionless variables that are not fully resolved in the discussion.