Taylor Series Approximation for Solving Initial Value Problems

In summary, the Taylor Series Starting Method is a mathematical technique that uses derivatives to approximate the value of a function at a given point. It differs from other methods by using derivatives to calculate each term, resulting in a more accurate estimation. However, it is limited to functions with derivatives at the given point and requires a large number of terms for high accuracy. It is commonly used in physics, engineering, and economics, as well as in computer graphics. Some variations include using a finite number of terms, a truncated form, or the Maclaurin Series.
  • #1
cscott
782
1
With a simple ODE like [itex]\frac{ds}{dt} = 10 - 9.8t[/itex] and you're given an initial condition of s(0) = 1, when doing the approximation would s'(0) = 10 - 9.8(0), s'' = ... etc?
 
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  • #2
Yes, you are given s(0) so just plug it into the given equation and solve for s'(0). Actually, the crucial point is under your "etc." Since
s'= 10- 9.8t, s"= -9.8, s"'= 0, etc. It should be no surprise that s is a quadratic function of t.

It would be more interesting if there were an "s" on the right side of the equation.
 
  • #3
Thanks for the help.
 

What is the Taylor Series Starting Method?

The Taylor Series Starting Method is a mathematical technique used to approximate the value of a function at a given point using a series of polynomial terms calculated from the derivatives of the function at that point.

How is the Taylor Series Starting Method different from other methods of approximation?

Unlike other methods of approximation, the Taylor Series Starting Method uses derivatives of the function to calculate each term in the series, resulting in a more accurate approximation. It also allows for a more precise estimation of the function at any point, rather than just at specific values.

What are the limitations of the Taylor Series Starting Method?

The Taylor Series Starting Method is limited by the fact that it can only be used for functions that have derivatives at the given point. It also requires a large number of terms in the series to achieve a high level of accuracy, making it computationally expensive.

How is the Taylor Series Starting Method used in real-world applications?

The Taylor Series Starting Method is commonly used in fields such as physics, engineering, and economics to approximate complex functions and solve differential equations. It is also used in computer graphics to create smooth curves and surfaces.

What are some common variations of the Taylor Series Starting Method?

Some common variations of the Taylor Series Starting Method include using a finite number of terms in the series, using a truncated form of the series, and using the Maclaurin Series, which is a special case of the Taylor Series where the point of approximation is 0.

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