User Guide

To compute the n

derivative of an expression f in the independent variable

t, you can use the syntax .

For example:

Differentiating an Operator

You can also specify a mathematical function as a functional operator (a

mapping). For a comparison of operators and other expressions, see Distinc-

tion between Functional Operators and Other Expressions (page 293).

To find the derivative of a functional operator:

• Use the D operator.

The D operator returns a functional operator.

For example, find the derivative of an operator that represents the mathem-

atical function .

First, define the mathematical function as the operator F.

1. In the Expression palette, click the single-variable function definition

item .

2. Enter placeholder values.

• To move to the next placeholder, press the Tab key. Note: If pressing

the Tab key inserts a tab, click the Tab icon in the toolbar.

Now, define the operator, G, that maps to the derivative of .

158 • 4 Mathematical Computations