Proof of Taylor's formula for polynomials

In summary, Taylor's formula is a way to represent a polynomial function f(x) in terms of its derivatives at a specific point a. By replacing x with a + h and expanding each term in powers of h, we get a representation of f(a+h) as a sum of coefficients c_v multiplied by powers of h. The coefficients c_v can be calculated using the formula c_v = \frac{1}{v!}f^v(a), and this is proven by applying the chain rule to differentiate with respect to h instead of x.
  • #1
JG89
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My book reads as follows:

"This is an entirely elementary algebraic formula concerning a polynomial in x or order n, say
[tex] f(x) = a_0 + a_1x + a_2x^2 + ... + a_nx^n [/tex].

If we replace x by a + h = b and expand each term in powers of h, there results immediately a representation of the form [tex] f(a+h) = c_0 = c_1h + c_2h^2 + ... + c_nh^n [/tex].

Taylor's formula is the relation: [tex] c_v = \frac{1}{v!}f^v(a) [/tex], for the coefficients c_v in terms of f and its derivatives at x = a. To prove this fact we consider the quantity h = b - a as the independent variable, and apply the chain rule which shows that differentiation with respect to h is the same as differentiation with respect to b = a + h."

I don't get how f'(h) = f'(a + h)?
 
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  • #2
I think it's saying that if you have f'(h) and want f'(h+a), just substitute in h+a where you see h to get f'(h+a). This works because [tex]\frac{d}{dh} h+a = 1[/tex]
 

FAQ: Proof of Taylor's formula for polynomials

What is Taylor's formula for polynomials?

Taylor's formula for polynomials is a mathematical theorem that allows us to approximate a complicated function with a simpler polynomial function. It states that any infinitely differentiable function can be written as a sum of its derivative values at a single point, plus terms involving higher derivatives evaluated at that point.

How is Taylor's formula derived for polynomials?

Taylor's formula for polynomials is derived using the Taylor series expansion, which is a way to represent a function as an infinite sum of terms. By finding the coefficients of this series, we can express the function as a polynomial.

What is the significance of Taylor's formula for polynomials?

Taylor's formula for polynomials is significant because it allows us to approximate complicated functions with simpler polynomial functions, which are easier to work with. This has many applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science.

Can Taylor's formula be used for non-polynomial functions?

Yes, Taylor's formula can be used for any infinitely differentiable function, not just polynomials. However, for non-polynomial functions, the formula may only provide an approximation, rather than an exact representation.

How is Taylor's formula used in real-world applications?

Taylor's formula has numerous applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science. It can be used to approximate complex functions in order to simplify calculations, make predictions, and solve problems. For example, it is used in computer graphics to create smooth curves and surfaces, and in physics to model the motion of objects.

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