Calculating Even N with Simpson's Rule

[pari786]

why do we use n as even number with simpson's rule ?

 

[berkeman]

Thread moved to calculus homework. pari786 -- tell us what you know about Simpson's rule.

 

[HallsofIvy]

Simpson's rule approximates the curve by a series of parabolas each of which requires 3 points. Using one parabola would mean 3 points dividing the entire interval into 2 sub-intervals. Using 2 parabolas would mean 5 points they share one point), so 4 sub-intervals, etc.