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Math Forum » Discussions » Inactive » calc_reform

Topic: defining important functions
Replies: 1   Last Post: Oct 16, 2001 7:29 AM

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Mark Bridger

Posts: 22
Registered: 12/6/04
defining important functions
Posted: Oct 15, 2001 8:49 PM
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I agree with Lou Talman's approach to exponential and log functions. I'd also like to suggest another approach, namely via differential equations. Exp(x) is a solution (if one exists) to y'(x) = y with y(0) = 1. You can get everything this way and it's fun. You get the power series from the DE (you don't need to go down the Tayler route). You can do the sine and cosine the same way, and use either one to define Pi, for example. It's a good project for an honors student.

Mark



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