I was just wondering... I have a graphing calculator... but are there functions on a scientific that chemists prefer? I'm just starting college.. and I want to make sure I have the right materials. Also, do chemistry professors dislike people using graphing calculators on tests?
2007-08-23 03:59:54 · 8 answers · asked by Me! 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
No, actually scientific calculators are on the way out because graphing calculators do all that and so much more. College professors differ on their views, but graphing calculators are the norm in college sciences. You should be all set.
[Edit] In response to Arol:
I wouldn't say "most" professors don't let you use it. All of the professors at my university have let me use it for every chemistry, physics, and engineering course I have taken. Also, yeah you can use it as a cheat sheet, and my professors have acknowledged this, but they say in the real world, you don't have to memorize formulas, and you'll always be able to look them up, so they don't care.
So short answer is... it depends on the professor. Wait until you register for classes and contact the professor and ask.
2007-08-23 04:06:34 · answer #1 · answered by Jon G 4 · 0⤊ 6⤋
Calculator For Chemistry
2016-11-13 04:36:31 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
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RE:
Do I need a scientific calculator for chemistry class?
I was just wondering... I have a graphing calculator... but are there functions on a scientific that chemists prefer? I'm just starting college.. and I want to make sure I have the right materials. Also, do chemistry professors dislike people using graphing calculators on tests?
2015-08-16 16:11:25 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hell yeah! there are no special functions chemists use because the math you'll see won't require calculus (at least in freshman chemistry). However, you'll need a calculator with logarithmic capabilities and scientific notation. Most prof. won't let you use a graphing calculator. The reason is simple, you can use the variables setup software in your graphic calculator and make yourself a nice cheat sheet. You can't do that with a regular scientific calculator without alphanumeric software. So, get yourself one. I'd reccomend the TI 34, i think that's the right model, but i'm not sure.
2007-08-23 04:17:41 · answer #4 · answered by Arol E. V 1 · 1⤊ 1⤋
You might be okay. But it always up to the individual teaching the class. Some instructors insist on a scientific calculator, others do not mind what you use.
The best thing to do is find out if the professor you are taking the course from has a preference. It is always a good idea to know in advance and it gives you an excuse to meet with the prof face to face.
2007-08-23 04:08:40 · answer #5 · answered by Richard 7 · 10⤊ 0⤋
You could have a calculator with every function known, but if you don't know how to set up the proper equation and set the variables and do the conversions properly, no calculator will help you.
The chemistry professor knows this, and he won't care if you use a +/- */ calculator or a HP 57C, but you just won't be able to use a laptop to search for the formulas to set up your equations....
2007-08-23 04:08:43 · answer #6 · answered by Dr Dave P 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, u definitely need a calculator for chemistry. Otherwise u'll flunk the course lol and as far as the scientific calc. goes, nah u dont need it. Just get the one that u think is good enough for the chemistry class. Im not talking abt the cheap ones either, but something like Casio. Hope it helps!
2007-08-23 04:09:25 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would recommend waiting until you get your class supply list. That way you won't waste any money on a calculator you can't use.
2007-08-23 04:07:40 · answer #8 · answered by Serena 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the professor. Some will not let you use graphing calculators on tests because of concerns about cheating.
2007-08-25 00:02:10 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ask your prof.
2007-08-23 04:08:14 · answer #10 · answered by ag_iitkgp 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋