Python Instructional Video Series
An example-based guide to using Python to solve math problems.
- The first video includes instructions for installing and getting started with Python. Note this video may be slightly out-of-date. The video mentions this calclab page with a link for installing the software.
- For each video, you can see the problem being solved, as well as the Python code used.
- You can also open the link to the Python Notebook file. You can click File>Download to download the notebook file to run on your own computer.
- Each video has a link to the full video page. These pages include links to related videos covering the same topics.
Three Part Series
This is part one of a three part Python video series and you should visit them in order. The second and third parts focus on Calculus I and II, respectively, but contain useful Python information even if you are not studying Calculus.Python Series - Part 2
Python Series - Part 3
Newly Redesigned Pages
We have redesigned the pages for our Python Series, but it still includes all the same videos. Now you can see the problem and the Python code for each video. You can also open the Python notebook file in Google Colab and download it.We hope to add more videos soon!
Concepts
- Installing Python
- Using symbols and functions in Python
- Solving equations numerically
- Plotting functions
Python Basics
Introduction and Installation
This video shows how to install and get started with Python. Note that some details of the installation process may be out-of-date, and we are working on recording an updated video. The video mentions this calclab page with a link for installing the software.
Transcript 00
Video 00 Page
Numerical Calculations in Python
Problem
Evaluate \(\ln(5)*e^{1.4}.\)Open Python Notebook File
Transcript 01
Full Video Page
Using Variables in Python
Problem
Find area of triangle with side lengths 100, 150, and 200 cm.Open Python Notebook File
Transcript 02
Full Video Page
Creating and Manipulating Symbolic Expressions
Problem
Simplify \(g(x)\) for \(g(x)=\dfrac{f(x)}{x^2-1}\) with \(f(x)=x^4+5x^3+8x^2+x-15\). Evaluate \(g(1)\) before and after simplifying \(g(x).\)Open Python Notebook File
Transcript 03
Full Video Page
Solving Equations Symbolically
Problem
Suppose former A&M punter Braden Mann wants to punt a ball 50 m and the ball leaves his foot with an initial velocity of 30 m/s. To determine the angle the ball needs to be kicked, it can be shown that the answer can be found by solving the equation \[50\tan(\theta)-\dfrac{13.61}{\cos(\theta)^2} = 0.\]Open Python Notebook File
Transcript 04
Full Video Page
Plotting Expressions and Solving Expressions Numerically
Problem
Plot the expression \[50\tan(\theta)-\dfrac{13.61}{\cos(\theta)^2} = 0.\] Then solve the equation numerically.Open Python Notebook File
Transcript 05
Full Video Page
Plotting Multiple Expressions in One Graph
Problem
Plot the function \[f(x)=\begin{cases} 2x+6 & \text{if} x\leq 2\\ x^2 & \text{if} x>2\end{cases}\]on the domain \(x\in [-5,3].\)
Open Python Notebook File
Transcript 06
Full Video Page
After finishing these videos, you can visit the next Python section. The examples are based on Calculus I examples, but still cover useful Python commands even if you are not learning Calculus.