Learning Guide Learning Guide

40 • Chapter 2: Mathematics with Maple: the Basics> simplify(expr, {a*b=5});25 aYou can also try the algsubs command, which performs an algebraicsubstitution.> algsubs(a*b=5, expr);25 aWhy is the Result of simplify Not the Simplest Form> expr2 := cos(x)*(sec(x)-cos(x));For example:expr2 := cos(x) (sec(x) − cos(x))> simplify(expr2);1 − cos(x) 2The expected form was sin(x) 2 .Again, use side relations to specify the identity.> simplify(%, {1-cos(x)^2=sin(x)^2});sin(x) 2The issue of simplification is a complicated one because it is difficultto define the simplest form of an expression. One user’s idea of a simpleform may be vastly different from another user’s; indeed, the idea of thesimplest form can vary from situation to situation.How do I Factor out the Constant from 2x + 2y Currently, this operationis not possible in Maple because its simplifier automatically distributesthe number over the product, believing that a sum is simplerthan a product. In most cases, this is true.If you enter the expression> 2*(x + y);