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From: rdp@teddy.UUCP
Newsgroups: net.ai
Subject: Equation solver
Message-ID: <1985@teddy.UUCP>
Date: Mon, 27-Jan-86 11:18:14 EST
Article-I.D.: teddy.1985
Posted: Mon Jan 27 11:18:14 1986
Date-Received: Wed, 29-Jan-86 04:12:03 EST
Distribution: net
Organization: GenRad, Inc., Concord, Mass.
Lines: 50

I am looking for a program that can solve simple algebraic expressions
of the type:

		10x - 15 = 5

(very simple stuff, eh?)

The idea is to have something that can solve, simplify or expand algebraic
formula that a beginning algebra student might encounter.

I would like to try to come up with a SIMPLE system that can demonstrate
the rules used to solve such equations, and possibly even coach a student.

Note that I am looking for simple solutions, I have no need of the extensive
capabilities of MACSYMA or some such thing. 

A sample "session" might look something like:

	Given:

		10x - 15 = 5

	Let's solve for x by adding 15 to both sides of the equation:

		10x - 15 =   5
		     +15 = +15
                ______________
		10x      =  20

	Now, we must eliminate the factor on x by dividing both sides
	of the equation by 10:

		10x  =  20
		___     __
		10      10

	This leaves:

		x  =  2

Now, along the way, the student might want to invoke something that explains
why something is being done. Does this necessarily imply a "rule-based" system?
(I, personally, expect not, but what do I know? :-)

Ths system would have the capability of SIMPLIFYING expressions, EXPANDING
expressions and SOLVING expressions (where possible).

Any help, pointers, suggestions, etc. from people is much appreciated.

Dick Pierce