Lukic to speak on ‘Maxima’ and Gravitation Sept. 28

In an upcoming presentation, Dr. Milan Lukic of the Mathematics Department will demonstrate several features of “Maxima” while solving an interesting question about gravitation. The talk is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, in Room 301 Hoffman Hall. Bring a lunch; beverages will be provided.

“Maxima” is a computer algebra system (CAS) that is a powerful tool for solving mathematical problems. Similar to other commercial CAS systems like “Mathematica,” “Maple,” and “Derive,” “Maxima” can help solve problems analytically, numerically, or graphically. “Maxima” is a descendant of the very first CAS, “Macsyma,” which was developed at MIT in the late ’60s to early ’70s. Unlike its costly commercial counterparts, “Maxima” is available as a free download from the Internet.