Thread: Help with maths

Hi, I'm new to C++ (only started on saturday), and I'm trying to make my first program that is actually useful. I'm trying to chart population growth using the formula:

P = N(1+R)^A

(Where N is the starting population, R is the growth in %, A is the length of time of the growth, and P is the population after the growth has happened)

Anyway, I want to just start off with it being over 1 year, which eliminates A from the equation.

Here is my code:

Code:

int X, Y, Z, A, B;
int C = 100;
cout<<"What is the population that is going to grow? \n";
cin>>X;
cin.ignore();
cout<<"\nWhat is the growth rate, in %?\n";
cin>>Y;
cin.ignore();
Y/=C;
X*(1+Y)=Z;
cin.get();

The declared-but-unused variables may be used by me later on. I used:

Code:

int C = 100
Y/=C

To get around the problem of "error C2106: '=' : left operand must be l-value"

But now, with the 'X*(1+Y)=Z' I've hit that problem again, and I don't know how to get around it. If it matters, my compiler is Visual C++ Express Edition.

Anyone know how, or can someone point me towards a guide to doing maths in C++?

Your best bet would be to learn C++ essentials before you start coding things. There are lots of helpful guides on an array of topics, but they all assume you have a fair handle on C++. Starting on Saturday is only a very small beginning. Learning any language, whether spoken or written, takes a lot of time and effort. ^_^

Originally Posted by Darklighter137

Your best bet would be to learn C++ essentials before you start coding things. There are lots of helpful guides on an array of topics, but they all assume you have a fair handle on C++. Starting on Saturday is only a very small beginning. Learning any language, whether spoken or written, takes a lot of time and effort. ^_^

Well, this is only going to be 30 lines or so, and is very much a learning project for me.

I got it working, by rearranging it to "Z = X*1+Y" .

But now it's saying that 5 divided by 100 = 0. Which is messing it up. It seems that it doesn't like decimals, nor does it like fractions.

you dont need the cin.ignore(), just the 'cin >>' is adequate. and if you just use '"abcdef? ";' at the end of your questions, the input will be at the end of the question.

Originally Posted by vart

because it is int
you cannot store something like0.05 in the int variable.
use double

Ah, thanks, I got it working.

I obviously have alot to learn about variables.

Thanks for the help.

you dont need the cin.ignore(), just the 'cin >>' is adequate. and if you just use '"abcdef? ";' at the end of your questions, the input will be at the end of the question.

Yeah, I'm going to tidy up the code.

Originally Posted by vart

because it is int
you cannot store something like0.05 in the int variable.
use double

that would be a "float" wouldnt it?

Originally Posted by Cat

double works too.

float = single precision (typically 32 bit floating-point)
double = double precision (typically 64 bit floating-point)

You may as well use doubles; the FPU on your PC can handle them just as well as single precision floats.

ok, i take it that using two's complement?