A smoother alternative to jQuery show() and hide()
<p>I have a page setup with a hidden column using the jQuery show() and hide() functions to slide the column in and out.</p>

<p>However it's kind of "clunky" and does not look very smooth when showing/hiding; in contrast I also have a section of the page using jquery UI accordion.  When switching between these sections the transition looks very nice and smooth...</p>

<p>Is there a better function than show()/hide() which looks as nice as the accordion does? (maybe the "easing" parameter can be used in the show/hide functions, but i'm not sure how to use this properly?)</p>
