A computer algebra system(CAS)or symbol manipulation system is a computer program that performs symbolic mathematical operations.In Figure1.1we show an interactive dialogue with the Maple computer algebra system developed by WaterlooMapleInc.Thestatementsthatareprecededbytheprompt(>)areinputstothesystemthatareenteredata computerworkstation.Thecommandsfactor,convert,compoly,and simplifyareexamplesofmathematicaloperatorsintheMaplesystem.In responsetothesestatements,theprogramperformsamathematicaloperationanddisplaystheresultusinganotationthatissimilartoordinary mathematicalnotation.