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

Numerical solution of equations — practice question

(i)[2]

By sketching an appropriate pair of graphs, show that the equation $\frac{1}{x} = \sin x$, where $x$ is measured in radians, has just one root for $0 < x \leq \tfrac{1}{2}\pi$.

(ii)[2]

Verify through calculation that this root is between $x = 1.1$ and $x = 1.2$.

(iii)[3]

Use the iterative formula $x_{n+1} = \frac{1}{\sin x_n}$ to find this root correct to 2 decimal places, and give each iterate 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: Draw a recognisable sketch of a suitable graph, such as $y=\sin x$ or $y=\tfrac{1}{x}$.

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