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

Numerical solution of equations — practice question

Take the equation $\cot 2x = 2\sin 2x - 1$.
(a)[2]

By sketching an appropriate pair of graphs, show that the equation $\cot 2x = 2\sin 2x - 1$ has exactly one root in the interval $0 < x < \frac{1}{2}\pi$.

(b)[2]

Show by calculation that the root is within the interval $0.4 \le x \le 0.6$.

(c)[3]

Use the iterative formula $x_{n+1}=\frac{1}{2}\tan^{-1}\!\left(\frac{1}{2\sin 2x_n-1}\right)$ to find the root correct to 2 decimal places. Record 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: Sketch relevant graph, for example $y=\cot(2x)$

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