Best Approximations: Solving (e^x,p_1)

  • Thread starter roam
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation discusses a worked example involving (e^x,p_1) and the confusion over its solution of \frac{1}{2}(3-e). The original poster asks for clarification on their attempted solution and is given suggestions on how to check for errors. The importance of setting up the problem correctly and checking the final answer is also emphasized.
  • #1
roam
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Homework Statement



The following is a worked example:

[PLAIN]http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/122/57926907.gif
[PLAIN]http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/8884/82726904.gif

I don't understand why they have got [tex](e^x,p_1)[/tex] equal to [tex]\frac{1}{2}(3-e)[/tex]! :confused:

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex](e^x,p_1)=\int^1_0 e^x(x-\frac{1}{2})dx[/tex]

[tex]=\left[ xe^x-e^x- \frac{e^x}{2}\right]^1_0[/tex]

[tex]=\frac{2.7}{2}-\frac{1}{2}[/tex]

I don't get [tex](e^x,p_1)=\frac{1}{2}(3-e)[/tex].

Is there something wrong with what I'm doing?
 
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  • #2
Where'd that 2.7 come from?

Anyways, you seem to have done two things:
  • Antidifferentiated
  • Plugged in numbers
Can you think of a way to check if your anti-derivative is correct?
Can you think of a way to check if you plugged in numbers and did arithmetic correctly?

It's probably worth checking that you set the problem up correctly too.

It's also worth checking that what you got and what the answer book got really are different. Can you think of a way to do that?
 

1. What is the purpose of solving (e^x,p_1)?

The purpose of solving (e^x,p_1) is to find the best approximation of the function e^x using a polynomial of degree 1. This is useful in many applications, such as approximating complex functions, performing numerical calculations, and solving differential equations.

2. How is the best approximation of (e^x,p_1) determined?

The best approximation of (e^x,p_1) is determined by finding the polynomial of degree 1 that minimizes the error between the actual function e^x and the approximation p_1. This is typically done using methods such as least squares or the method of moments.

3. What is the significance of using a polynomial of degree 1 for approximating (e^x,p_1)?

Using a polynomial of degree 1 allows for a linear approximation of the function e^x. This means that the approximation will be a straight line, making it easier to visualize and understand the behavior of the function. Additionally, using a higher degree polynomial may result in overfitting and a less accurate approximation.

4. Can (e^x,p_1) be solved analytically?

Yes, (e^x,p_1) can be solved analytically by finding the coefficients of the polynomial using the method of least squares or the method of moments. This involves solving a system of equations to determine the best values for the coefficients.

5. How accurate is the best approximation of (e^x,p_1)?

The accuracy of the best approximation of (e^x,p_1) depends on the degree of the polynomial used and the range of values for x. Generally, the approximation will be more accurate for values of x closer to 0 and may become less accurate for larger values of x. The accuracy can also be improved by using higher degree polynomials or by using more data points for the approximation.

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