rpn-stack-logic

name	rpn-stack-logic
description	Guidelines on implementing an RPN LIFO stack architecture utilizing React state and Math.js BigNumbers

Implementing RPN Stack Logic in React

When building an RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) mode, you must manage a Last-In, First-Out (LIFO) stack representing the user's operands.

State Structure

Maintain the stack as an array of numerical strings or math.js BigNumber objects in React State.

const [stack, setStack] = useState<math.BigNumber[]>([]);
const [currentInput, setCurrentInput] = useState<string>("");

Operation Flow

1. Pushing to the Stack ('Enter' Key)

When the user commits a number:

1. Parse the string into a high-precision decimal.
2. Unshift/push it into the stack array.
3. Clear the current input.

2. Executing Operations (e.g., '+', '*', 'sin')

Operators trigger stack mutations:

1. Binary Operators (+, -, *, /): Pop the top two items. Provide them to the math.js evaluate engine. Push the result back on top.
2. Unary Operators (sin, cos, sqrt): Pop the top one item. Evaluate. Push the result back iteratively.

Handling Unit Operations

For dimensional analysis (e.g., converting cm to inches in RPN), ensure the type stored in the stack resolves safely between math.Unit and standard scalar big numbers.