# Matlab Newton's Method

Recall that Newton's Method is an iterative way of approximating a zero of a function $$f$$. The idea is that, given a starting guess $$x_i$$, we compute new estimates of the zero of $$f$$ using the formula $x_{n+1}=x_n-\frac{f(x_n)}{f'(x_n)}\quad n=0,1,\dots\ .$ One uses this iteration until $$\vert x_{n+1}-x_n\vert\lt \text{tolerance}$$ or until we give up trying. Write a Matlab function newton(f,x0,tolerance) that finds the zero of a function using Newton's method.

Assignment 6 is posted.

The midterm exam will take place on Friday, 12 October. As always, you are permitted any paper notes you find useful, but no electronic devices are allowed. The test is cumulative, but emphasizes the material covered in the last fours weeks. A sample exam is available.

You need to install Matlab on your computer by Wednesday. You do not need Simulink or any particular toolboxes, though you might find the Symbolic toolbox useful at some time in the future (not in this class).

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