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

Numerical solution of equations — practice question

(a)[2]

By sketching an appropriate pair of graphs on the same diagram, show that the equation $e^{-\frac{1}{2}x} = x^5$ has exactly one real root.

(b)[3]

Use the iterative formula $x_{n+1} = \sqrt[5]{e^{-\frac{1}{2}x_n}}$ to find the root correct to 4 significant figures. Give the result of each iteration to 6 significant figures.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 5-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Draw an approximately correct sketch of $y=e^{-\frac{1}{2}x}$

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