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

Numerical solution of equations — practice question

(a)[2]

By sketching an appropriate pair of graphs, show that the equation $\cosec x = 1 + e^{-\frac{1}{2}x}$ has exactly two roots in the interval $0 < x < \pi$.

(b)[3]

The sequence produced by $x_{n+1} = \pi - \sin^{-1}\left(\frac{1}{e^{-\frac{1}{2}x_n} + 1}\right)$, with initial value $x_1 = 2$, approaches one of these roots. Use the formula to find this root correct to 2 decimal places. State each iterate to 4 decimal places.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 5-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Sketch a suitable graph, for example $y=\csc x$

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