Solving \[x^{4}-4x^{3}+10=0\] with a "Binary Search

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the quartic equation \[x^{4}-4x^{3}+10=0\]. Participants explore various methods for finding the roots of the equation, including numerical approximation techniques and graphical analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants mention using a "binary search" method to approximate the roots of the equation, suggesting it may not be the most efficient approach.
  • One participant suggests that numerical approximation methods, such as those found in Excel, could be effective for solving the equation.
  • Another participant notes the rational root theorem but states it does not apply to this specific equation.
  • A later reply introduces Newton's Method as a well-known numerical approximation technique for solving such equations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty about the best method to solve the equation, with multiple competing views on the effectiveness of various numerical approximation techniques. No consensus has been reached regarding a definitive solution method.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of specific details on the implementation of the proposed methods and the absence of a clear solution path for the quartic equation.

Yankel
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Hello all

I am trying to draw a graph of a function. On the way, I wanted to see where the function meet the x axis, so I put y=0. It gave me this:

\[x^{4}-4x^{3}+10=0\]

How do I solve this equation ?

Thanks !

I tried a "binary search" and got really close to the answer, but I guess there must be a better way...
 
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Yankel said:
Hello all

I am trying to draw a graph of a function. On the way, I wanted to see where the function meet the x axis, so I put y=0. It gave me this:

\[x^{4}-4x^{3}+10=0\]

How do I solve this equation ?

Thanks !

I tried a "binary search" and got really close to the answer, but I guess there must be a better way...

It's not easy...
Quartic function - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A binary search or goal seek in excel are probably your best bets with a numerical approximation being next. Honestly this is one of those questions I'd just put into wolfram and use their answer(s)
 
Yankel said:
Hello all

I am trying to draw a graph of a function. On the way, I wanted to see where the function meet the x axis, so I put y=0. It gave me this:

\[x^{4}-4x^{3}+10=0\]

How do I solve this equation ?

Thanks !

I tried a "binary search" and got really close to the answer, but I guess there must be a better way...
You can occasionally use the rational root theorem, but it doesn't work for this equation.

-Dan
 
I understand, thank you !

What numerical approximation methods do we have to solve such equations ?
 
Yankel said:
I understand, thank you !

What numerical approximation methods do we have to solve such equations ?

Perhaps the best known is:

Newton's Method
 

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