Definition:Computer Algebra

Definition

Computer algebra is the use of a computer to carry out algebraic operations as opposed to arithmetic operations.

General Purpose

A computer algebra program which is designed to be used on any mathematical problem is classified as general purpose.

Specialized

A computer algebra program which is designed to be used for a specific type of mathematical problem, for example group theory, is classified as specialized.

Examples

Examples of computer applications designed to perform computer algebra are:

• Mathematica
• Maple

Also known as

Computer algebra is also known as symbolic manipulation.

Also see

• Results about computer algebra can be found here.

Sources

• 1998: David Nelson: The Penguin Dictionary of Mathematics (2nd ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): computer algebra
• 2008: David Nelson: The Penguin Dictionary of Mathematics (4th ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): computer algebra