Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Numerical solution of equations

Numerical solution of equations — practice question

(a)[2]

Sketch an appropriate pair of graphs to show that the equation $\cot \frac{1}{2}x = 1 + e^{-x}$ has exactly one root in the interval $0 < x \leq \pi$.

(b)[2]

Verify through calculation that this root is between $1$ and $1.5$.

(c)[3]

Use the iterative formula $x_{n+1} = 2\tan^{-1}\left(\frac{1}{1 + e^{-x_n}}\right)$ to find the root correct to $2$ decimal places. Give each iterative value to $4$ decimal places.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Sketch a suitable graph, for example $y=\cot\frac12x$

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