MATLAB is a programming language developed by MathWorks.
Defined as a multi-paradigm numerical computing environment and fourth-generation programming language, MATLAB takes its name from matrix laboratory.
MATLAB is primarily used for numerical computing, allowing for matrix manipulations, plotting of data and functions, implementation of algorithms and creation of user interfaces.
It can also be used for symbolic computing and graphical multi-domain simulation through option add-ons.
How many people use MATLAB?
The proprietary programming language was first developed by Cleve Moler, who started developing MATLAB in the 1970s. Moler, who was the chairman of the computer science department at the University of New Mexico, designed MATLAB for his students and the programming language soon spread to other universities.
Jack Little, an engineer was exposed to MATLB during a visit by Moler to Stanford Univeristy, with the engineer realising its commercial potential. Little joined with Moler and Steve Bangert to establish MathWorks in 1984, whereby they rewrote MATLAB in C to continue its development.
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As of 2014, MATLAB had approximately one million users across industry and academia.
