SUMMARY
This discussion focuses on handling absolute values and precision issues in FORTRAN 77, specifically when reading floating-point numbers. The user encountered an issue where inputting 0.01 resulted in an output of 0.00999999978 due to the limitations of real*4 precision. To achieve better precision, the recommendation is to use real*8. Additionally, the user faced a problem calculating the number of intervals (n) for Simpson's 1/3 rule, which returned 9 instead of the expected 10. The NINT() function was identified as a solution to correctly compute n.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of FORTRAN 77 syntax and data types
- Familiarity with floating-point representation and precision issues
- Knowledge of numerical methods, specifically Simpson's 1/3 rule
- Experience with FORTRAN intrinsic functions like NINT()
NEXT STEPS
- Research the differences between real*4 and real*8 in FORTRAN 77
- Explore the use of NINT() and other rounding functions in FORTRAN
- Study numerical methods for integration, focusing on Simpson's 1/3 rule
- Learn about floating-point arithmetic and its implications in programming
USEFUL FOR
This discussion is beneficial for FORTRAN developers, numerical analysts, and anyone working with precision in floating-point calculations, particularly in scientific computing and numerical methods.