WolframAlpha

= Wolfram|Alpha = toc

About
Wolfram|Alpha is a "computational knowledge engine" started by Stephen Wolfram. It is the culmination of decades of computational research driven by Wolfram. Wolfram|Alpha uses a host of algorithms, equations and primary source data sets to compute answers to search queries. Queries can be made using natural language. Different from a traditional search engine, Wolfram|Alpha does not search the web for relevant results and report back a list of links. Wolfram|Alpha actually calculates or mines data sets to answer questions (Wolfram|Alpha, 2011). To learn more about Stephen Wolfram and his companies endeavors visit his blog.

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//Wolfram|Alpha in a Nutshell//

As a Ready Reference or Educational Tool
Because Wolfram|Alpha computes its answers from primary source data and provides brief citations for its results it is a much more authoritative resource than many other Web 2.0 reference tools. According to the site, they have "participation from top outside experts in countless fields". In addition the is regularly vetted for accuracy (Wolfram|Alpha, 2011).

Examples of a Wolfram|Alpha Answer:
[|LOC.pdf] For the query "How many books are in the Library of Congress?"

[|Bangor vs Columbia.pdf] For the query "Bangor ME, Columbia SC"

[|Bangor vs Columbia COL.pdf] For the query "Cost of living Bangor ME, Columbia SC"