Scilab
Scilab is a free and open-source numerical computation software and programming language used for scientific and engineering applications. It provides a powerful environment for matrix operations, data analysis, algorithm development, and visualization, similar to MATLAB. It includes hundreds of mathematical functions, toolboxes for various domains, and a graphical interface for plotting and simulation.
Developers should learn Scilab when working in academic, research, or engineering fields that require numerical analysis, signal processing, control systems, or image processing, especially in environments with budget constraints or open-source preferences. It is ideal for prototyping algorithms, performing simulations, and handling large datasets, offering a cost-effective alternative to proprietary software like MATLAB.