Approximation sin(x) taylor Series and Accuracy

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves using the approximation sin(x) = x to determine the maximum angle of deflection for a simple gravity pendulum, with a focus on the accuracy of this approximation at different percentage levels. The context is rooted in the application of Taylor series for estimating accuracy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to identify the next nonvanishing term of the Taylor series and how to assess the accuracy of the approximation. Questions arise regarding the differences between sin(x) and x at specified accuracy levels, as well as how to calculate relative deviation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants expressing uncertainty about implementing the Taylor series and calculating accuracy. Some guidance has been offered regarding starting points, but there is no explicit consensus on the approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants note a lack of clarity on how to apply the Taylor series and the concept of accuracy in this context. There is also mention of needing to reference external materials for understanding Taylor series.

engboysclub
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Homework Statement



One uses the approximation sin(x) = x to calculate the oscillation period of a simple gravity pendulum. Which is the maximal angle of deflection (in degree) such that this approximation is accurate to a) 10%, b) 1%, c) 0.1%. You can estimate the accuracy by using the next nonvanishing term of the Taylor series

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure how to begin.
 
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by using the next nonvanishing term of the Taylor series
You could determine this term to begin.

Afterwards: How do sin(x) and x differ if the approximation is accurate to 10%?
 
I'm not really sure - I know what Taylor series is - Graphically and what it does but I don't know how to implement it or work it out.
 
How do i determine the term ?

How do I calculate the accuracy ?
 
Look in your script/book/wikipedia for the taylor series. You cannot solve the problem without any knowledge about taylor series.

How do I calculate the accuracy ?
If the real value is 0.5 and the approximation is 0.45 (arbitrary numbers), what is the relative deviation?
 
engboysclub said:
I'm not really sure - I know what Taylor series is - Graphically and what it does but I don't know how to implement it or work it out.

The thing to do is just to START: write down the Taylor expansion for sin(x). Stop agonizing over it, and just use what you have been taught; that will get you part way towards the solution. Then, if you are stuck at a later stage, you can ask a more pointed and more meaningful question.

RGV
 

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