Using arithmetic operations on numbers, a calculator is a device. The only mathematical operations that basic calculators can do are addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
The square root, logarithm, trigonometric, and hyperbolic functions can all be handled by more advanced calculators. Some calculators internally carry out each of these tasks through numerous additional operations.
Different Types Of Calculators And Their Uses
1. Standard calculators
- The four-function calculator is the simplest type, capable of performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division operations. An advanced calculator that can solve complex mathematical, scientific, and engineering problems is called a “scientific calculator” (like trigonometry).
- Given that they are sufficiently small to fit in a shirt pocket, these are often referred to as slide rules or hand-held electronic calculators. They are the most affordable calculator, with $5 or less.
2. Specialized calculators
- The scientific calculator, as its name implies, is created for use in conducting scientific calculations.
- This sort of calculator typically has more buttons than a typical calculator because it needs to be able to handle trigonometric functions, logarithms, sine/cosine, and exponential operations.
- Additionally, the scientific calculator typically has a larger display to see more extended calculations and more digits at once.
3. Calculators that plot data
- Graphing calculators come in second place among calculator types. Since they can carry out many of the same operations, scientific and graphing calculators are similar.
- The graphing calculator may, however, plot equations on a coordinate plane, for instance, in more complex mathematics like trigonometry.
- For individuals who are visual learners or are taking a calculus or other math course that involves plenty of graphing, this is an invaluable tool.
4. Calculators for Finances
We’ll talk about financial calculators as our final category of calculators and their uses.
- The financial calculator uses paper tape to print computations for hard-copy record-keeping and is an electronic tool for resolving economic issues. The most common graphing calculators contain an x-squared (X2) button. You should use the “” symbol (X3, X6) for greater exponents. Click “Graph.” Your calculator will automatically draw the graph.
- Most of the time, this calculator can calculate the present, the future, the rate of return, and other important financial concepts like return on investment. A financial calculator is needed for somebody pursuing economics or operating in the financial sector.
Final Say
Calculators in primary school help students understand concepts better without taking the place of other calculation techniques. In our inquiry and technology-based culture, calculators can encourage significantly greater thinking and reasoning for conflict resolution.
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