One of the coolest advances of doing math on the computer, is the
computer's ability to do symbolic math. This means the computer
can do algebra, which means properly handling the math for all of the $x$'s, $y$'s,
and $z$'s (you know, "the symbols").
We've developed a function called algebra that actually knows
how to "do algebra" on a mathematical expression you give it.
Let's start with some basic algebra here, which involves combining exponents,
when a bunch of variables are raised to some power. You've probably seen problems
like this before, ones that call for "simplifying expressions" like: $x^2x^5$ or $z^3x^2z^{-1}$.
Try these first, and then try some of your own homework problems!
answer=algebra("your-math-expression")
Move the mouse over a dotted box for more information.
Now you try. Try programming in some expressions, like $xy^2y^{1/3}$, $zxyyzxz$ or $\frac{1}{2}x^{3/2}y^2x$, to
see how the exponents come out.
Type your code here:
See your results here:
This example will simplify the problem $x^2x^3$ and display the result.
Share your code
Show a friend, family member, or teacher what you've done!