Equation and write the procedure? x+cos(x)=0

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation x + cos(x) = 0, focusing on methods to find an approximate solution without using graphical representations. Participants explore various approaches and the nature of the equation itself.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that cos(x) is a transcendental function, suggesting that solving the equation analytically may not be feasible.
  • Another participant proposes using Newton's method as a potential approach to find an approximate solution.
  • A different participant mentions that the solution is unique and is a transcendental number, emphasizing the nature of the solution.
  • One participant draws a parallel to another transcendental equation, cos(x) = 0.3, and inquires about using a common calculator to find an approximate solution for x + cos(x) = 0.
  • Another participant suggests expressing the equation as x = -cos(x) and describes a fixed point iteration method to approximate the solution, detailing the iterative process and its limitations.
  • A final participant expresses satisfaction with the information provided, indicating it meets their needs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the transcendental nature of the equation and the uniqueness of the solution. However, there are multiple competing views on the methods to find an approximate solution, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on numerical methods for approximation and the lack of a definitive analytical solution. The discussion does not resolve the effectiveness of the proposed methods.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in numerical methods for solving transcendental equations, particularly those seeking to understand iterative approximation techniques.

BC-02
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Can someone solve this equation and write the procedure?

x+cos(x)=0

Without using graph.
 
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cos(x) is a transcendental function, there isn't much point to scratching your head trying to solve a transcendental equation; it isn't likely to be expressible in terms of radicals anyway.

Use Newtons method.
 
The approximate solution is all u could get...The solution is unique,however,it is certainly a transcendental (i.e.no algebraic) number...

Daniel.
 
cos(x)=0,3 is also transcendental equation (I think), even so I can get approximate solution with my calculator (1,266 ...). Is there any possibility how to get approximate solution of x+cos(x)=0 with common calculator (for example the calculator in windows)?
 
Express the equation as:

x = - Cos(x)

now do a fixed point iteration so

[tex]x_2 = - \cos (x_1)[/tex]
and
[tex]x_{n +1} = - \cos (x_n)[/tex]


Start by making a guess between 1 and 0, call this [itex]x_1[/itex] calculate [itex]x_2[/itex] ,simply repeat the process until the number stops changing. It is not incredibly fast, 20 iterations gets you around 3 digits. Keep iterating until you are tired of pushing buttons, observe the digits that do not change. The unchanging digits are your answer. If you want more digits iterate some more.
 
Thank you, I think this is sufficient for me.
 

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