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Pitfalls in the use of computers for the Newton-Raphson method

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 August 2016

D. Mackie
Affiliation:
Department of Mathematics, Napier College, Edinburgh
T. Scott
Affiliation:
Department of Mathematics, Napier College, Edinburgh

Extract

It is generally accepted that the presentation of numerical methods will depend to a large extent on the type of student being taught. Mathematics students should be exposed to error analysis and possible pitfalls of the various techniques. However, other groups of students, such as engineers or physicists, usually require a different approach, and the emphasis tends to be more on showing how to use the method on a calculator or, preferably, a computer. Indeed, at Napier College, students are encouraged to write their own programs and/or use the microcomputer laboratory. This practice, though commendable, does have the danger that the students begin to believe every answer that the computer/calculator generates. They forget that rounding errors can become important, and in fact teachers often forget to mention this, since more than 8 figure accuracy can always be assumed.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Mathematical Association 1985

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References

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