Thread: distributing on Ti-84 plus

I am sure my calculator can do this, i just cant figure out how. For example, is there a way i can have the calculator work out [(6-x^2)^2-(6-4x+x^2)^2], to get the answer?

Originally Posted by Juggalomike

I am sure my calculator can do this, i just cant figure out how. For example, is there a way i can have the calculator work out [(6-x^2)^2-(6-4x+x^2)^2], to get the answer?

Use the "expand" function. You can either type out the word or pick it from your algebra or math menu.

Example:

expand((6-x^2)^2-(6-4x+x^2)^2)

Originally Posted by Juggalomike

I am sure my calculator can do this, i just cant figure out how. For example, is there a way i can have the calculator work out [(6-x^2)^2-(6-4x+x^2)^2], to get the answer?

Unfortunately a TI84 uses only numbers, no symbols for variables. (As you already have noticed the TI84 doesn't have the "expand(" command)

If you use a TI89 then you can use variables because this calculator has a CAS implemented.

Originally Posted by earboth

Unfortunately a TI84 uses only numbers, no symbols for variables. (As you already have noticed the TI84 doesn't have the "expand(" command)

If you use a TI89 then you can use variables because this calculator has a CAS implemented.

yeah i normaly use a Ti89, however teacher for calc 2 said we have to use an 84, gonna be a hell of a downgrade heh

Yikes. I'm sorry for the bad information then. I thought the TI-84 was the lowest common denominator with the other algebra capable calculators.

Sorry Juggalomike. ;(

There is an add-on application you can buy for $50.

Zoom Math 200 - Algebra 1 Program for TI-83 Plus and TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculators

It looks like it at least lets you expand using FOIL; not sure about what else it can do.

Maybe it can help though.

Originally Posted by QM deFuturo

Yikes. I'm sorry for the bad information then. I thought the TI-84 was the lowest common denominator with the other algebra capable calculators.

Sorry Juggalomike. ;(

np, at the very least i can use that on my 89