The Exact Root Algorithm for Computing the Real Roots of an Nth Degree Polynomial

Abstract

Problem statement: The need to find an efficient and reliable algorithm for computing the exact real roots of the steady-state polynomial encountered in the investigation of temperature profiles in biological tissues during Microwave heating and other similar cases as found in the literature gave rise to this study. Approach: The algorithm (simply called ERA-Exact Root Algorithm) adopted polynomial deflation technique and uses Newton-Raphson iterative procedure though with a modified termination rule. A general formula was specified for finding the initial approximation so as to overcome the limitation of local convergence which is inherent in Newton’s method. Results: A new algorithm for finding the real roots of an nth degree polynomial at a practically low computational cost was obtained. Conclusion/Recommendations: ERA is simple, flexible, easy to use and has clear benefits and preferences to a number of existing methods.