programming language functionality 3

[bazilvan]

Is there an open source programming language which allows one to name calculated fields using a function name with multiple function arguments, in which each argument is an index of sequences. The language needs to be independent of operating system and database.

For example, in the following calculated fields
V(a,e,ti) = Q(a,e,t) * P(a,e,i)

Function names are V, Q and P, while function arguments a,e,t,i are indices for sequences.


I shall be thankful for advice anyone can offer.

 

[xwb]

Try C++. It is one of the few where functions can occur on the right of the assignment statement as long as the type returned is a reference.

 

[swn1]

Mathematica, perhaps?

 

[xerf]

You should take a look at Python (

http://www.python.org).

Pros:
-free
-open source
-multi platform (Win, Linux etc.)
-there are tons of free scientifical, engineering, plotting (and pretty much everything tools) developed for it. You can find a nice package for Win here:

http://code.enthought.com/enthon/

For large list of available packages and modules see for example:

http://www.vex.net/parnassus/

-it is object-oriented
-it has packages for multi-platform GUI, if of interest.

Cons:
- it is interpreted. However, you can extend it through C/C++. It can compile the source files so it is not necessary to distribute the sources.

 

[LindyBob]

Use PERL. It is very good at handling lists of items as arguments to functions. It runs on Linux and Windows just fine. There is a free download at

http://www.activeperl.com

and elsewhere.