Introducing Poly Calc: a computer algebra project

in #mathematics7 years ago

Transparent PolyCalc Logo.png

I've started a hobby project that manipulates polynomials. Currently the program can parse strings, characterize a single or multivariable polynomials into a standard form and then perform operations on the polynomial, including division. The GitHub page can be found here.

I began this project in order to practice my coding skills and to eventually get my hands dirty with topics from Algebraic Geometry.

Here is an example of Poly Calc's string parsing. It formats and collects like terms:

Here is an example of Poly Calc dividing multivariable polynomials:

The application is far from complete. Here are a list of goals for the project to make it more useful:

Short-term Goals:

  • Single-variable: provide exact solutions for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th degree polynomials.
  • Single-variable: provide solutions for higher degree polynomials if they meet solvability criteria or via non-algebraic methods.
  • Multi-variable: define function for derivative with respect to a given variable.

Long-term Goals:

  • Write a function to find Gröbner basis
  • Code coefficients and function inputs as algebraic representations instead of floating point numbers.
  • Create a GUI for desktop and mobile phone

I will write progress updates. Feel free to give me suggestions or contribute code!

-Mike