When I type sin(3), why does Maple echo this back instead of evaluating it?

If you type sin(3), Maple echoes it back instead of evaluating it because sin(3) does not simplify symbolically. You can obtain a floating-point solution by using the evalf() function:

Another way to get a floating-point solution is to call sin on 3.0, which is a floating-point number in Maple syntax, rather than on 3, which is an integer.

For more about Maple, see the Stat/Math Center's Maple at IU page.

For more information about statistical and mathematical software, email the UITS Stat/Math Center, visit the center's web page, or phone 812-855-4724 (IUB) or 317-278-4740 (IUPUI). The center is located in Bloomington at 410 N. Park Avenue, and is open for consultation by appointment Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

Also see:

• Where can I get help with Maple?