Lukic to speak on ‘Maxima’ and Gravitation today

Dr. Milan Lukic of the Mathematics Department will demonstrate several features of “Maxima” while solving an interesting question about gravitation at 12:30 p.m. today, 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.