Scientific Calculator

About the Scientific Calculator

A full scientific calculator that evaluates an expression containing +, −, ×, ÷, powers, parentheses and functions: sin, cos, tan, asin, acos, atan, sqrt, log (base 10), ln, exp, abs, plus the constants pi and e. Trig functions use radians.

How to use this calculator

1. Type the expression exactly as written, using parentheses to group parts like \(\sin(30^\circ)\) or \(\log(100)\).
2. Choose the correct angle mode for trig, degrees or radians, because the result changes with the mode.
3. Use the constants button for values like \(\pi\) and \(e\) instead of typing rounded decimals.
4. Click evaluate to get the result, then read the steps to see how the expression was simplified.

The formula explained

A scientific calculator evaluates a math expression by applying the correct order of operations and the rules for functions like sine, logarithms, exponents, and roots. It gives the numerical value of the expression after the input is interpreted correctly.

• x = a number or expression entered into the calculator
• n = an exponent, the power to which a number is raised

Step by step method

1. Rewrite the expression clearly and make sure parentheses show the intended order, for example \(3(2+5)^2\).
2. Apply functions and operations in the correct order, first inside parentheses, then powers and roots, then multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction.
3. If trig is involved, check whether the angle is in degrees or radians before evaluating.

Worked example

Problem. Evaluate \(3^2 + \sin(30^\circ)\).

1. Compute the power first, so \(3^2 = 9\).
2. Find the trig value, \(\sin(30^\circ) = 0.5\).
3. Add the results, \(9 + 0.5 = 9.5\).

Tips and common mistakes

• Always check angle mode for trig, because \(\sin(30^\circ)\) is not the same as \(\sin(30)\) in radians.
• Use parentheses for fractions and negative numbers, for example \((1/2)^3\) or \(\sin(-45^\circ)\), so the calculator reads the expression correctly.

Frequently asked questions