Function plotter

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Online function plotter
Output of a function graph on a Hewlett-Packard 9862A Calculator plotter

A function plotter is a computer program that calculates and draws graphs of mathematical functions . The term plotter is based on output devices that were used exclusively to reproduce vector graphics .

As an input, a function plotter requires a function specification in standard computer notation, for example x**2or x^2if the function is to be displayed. Some plotters can also display parametrically given curves . As a rule, the user can specify the definition and value range to be output and often change it interactively. Further setting options concern the layout of the coordinate system (background, line grid, axis division), axis labeling, title, display of the function graph as a solid, dotted, dashed curve and much more.

Significant quality differences show up as to whether the function plotter axes automatically in meaningful intervals divided (typically in 1 Series, of 2 or steps of 5), and as singularities (e.g. poles of a function such as , limiting the value range of at or oscillations of ) the function to be represented are processed.

A function plotter is part of the usual range of functions of computer algebra systems (CAS) and of matrix programming environments such as MATLAB , Scilab , GNU Octave . As an alternative to a function plotter as a computer program, pocket calculators with graphic capabilities (GTR) and pocket calculators with a computer algebra system (CAS-TR) are possible.

Graphics libraries make the components of a function plotter available as subprograms so that they can be integrated into any application program. Although graphics libraries and function plotters should ideally offer the same display options and only have to differ in the user interface ( API for a library, GUI or command line for an independent function plotter), programs that are only libraries or function plotters have historically prevailed.

Examples of web-based function plotters

plotter Remarks technology
Graph.tk Also plots implicit curves . Can differentiate , integrate and solve equations mathematically. Open Source ( LGPL ). Requires JavaScript , Canvas (and CSS ).
Desmos Graphing Calculator Can differentiate and integrate. Also plots parameter curves and implicit curves. Requires JavaScript.
Plotter suite Can differentiate and integrate. Contains plotters for parameter curves and implicit curves. Open Source ( CC0 ). Requires JavaScript and Canvas. Can also be used offline.
GraphyCalc 3D plotter for displaying quadrics . Requires JavaScript and Canvas.
WolframAlpha Many mathematical functions, offers functionalities from Mathematica . Server-side calculation.
MAFA Easy to handle. Completely implemented on the server side, does not require JavaScript.
Arndt Brünner Easy to handle. Also plots implicit curves. Parameters can be set interactively with slide controls. Requires Javascript and html5 (canvas).

Examples of native function plotters

Examples of graphing computer-aided function plotters

Examples of function plotters with additional math functions