ABSTRACT
One of the simplest kinds of function to deal with, in either algebra or calculus, is a polynomial. Polynomials are easy to substitute numerical values into, and they are easy to differentiate. One useful application of Colin Maclaurin's series is to approximate, to a polynomial, functions which are not already in polynomial form. The elastic curve of a transversely loaded beam can be represented by the Maclaurin series. Substitution of the values of the derivatives gives a direct solution of beam problems. Another application of Maclaurin series is in relating inter-atomic potential functions. The chapter explains simple derivatives and derivation of Maclaurin's theorem, and utilizes Maclaurin's series to determine the power series for simple trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions. It helps students to evaluate a definite integral using Maclaurin's series and determine limiting values of functions.
