Approximating Values using the Binomial Expansion (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Maths): Revision Note

Approximating values using the binomial expansion

What is the general binomial expansion?

• The general binomial expansion, as given in the formula booklet, is

• If n ∈ ℕ then the expansion is finite (see Binomial Expansion)

• Otherwise the expansion is infinitely long

  • It is only valid for |x| < 1 (-1 < x < 1)

  • Only the first few terms of an expansion are usually needed

How do I use a binomial expansion to approximate a value?

•  Ignoring higher powers of x leads to an approximation

• The more terms the closer the approximation is to the true value

• For most purposes, squared or cubed terms are accurate enough

STEP 1  Compare the value you are approximating to (a + bx)ⁿ
STEP 2  Solve the appropriate equation to find the value of x
STEP 3  Substitute this value of x into the expansion to find the approximation