Euler method
Input the sequences Find the result asked

Input the sequences

Consider the differential equation:

dydx=xy2

With the initial condition y(1.3)=2.35, we approximate y(2.2) rounded to four significant figures, using step size h=0.1.

We want to iterate over the x′s and the y′s. The Euler method tells us to choose the sequences defined by:

xn+1=xn+0.1,yn+1=yn+0.1(xnyn2)

The initial conditions are x1=1.3 and y1=2.35.

Warning Icon

In the TI-Nspire, sequences are represented as u(n) for xn and v(n) for yn. For example, u(2)=x2=1.4 and v(2)=y2.

  1. Create a new document, press Doc Icon, and select Add Calculator.
  2. Press Menu Icon and select Actions > Define.
  3. Define u(n): Enter the initialization on the first line and the recursive expression on the second line.
  4. Define v(n): Similarly, input the initialization and recursive formula for v(n).

    Euler Example

Find the result asked

To compute y(2.2), recall that u(10)=x10=2.2. Therefore, v(10)=y10y(2.2).

  1. Enter u(10) to confirm x10=2.2.
  2. Enter v(10). The result should be v(10)=1.42, giving: y(2.2)1.42

    Euler Example