Field Guide/Fix a problem/Missing solutions
Core3 min

Fix the wrong number of solutions

A solver or graph reports only one solution but the question suggests more.

01

Press these keys

WINDOWGRAPHintersect / zero

Step 1 of 3. Press WINDOW.

02

Walkthrough

  1. 1
    Use the full domain

    Set a window that covers the entire stated interval.

  2. 2
    Find one at a time

    Zero, intersect and Solver return a solution near the bracket or starting value; repeat elsewhere.

  3. 3
    Inspect discontinuities

    Do not count vertical-asymptote drawing artifacts as solutions.

03

Worked example

sin x=0.4 on 0≤x≤2π gives only 0.412 from inverse sine.

AnswerThere are two solutions in the interval.