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An implicit function $f(x,k)=0$ is quadratic in $x$ and contains one parameter $k$ which I must vary. Using Solve, I get two real solutions for each specific $k$: $x_1$ and $x_2$, of which I must choose the one that lies within $[0, 0.5]$. I must do this for a continuum of parameters $k$ between, say, $0$ and $1$. I then must plot the relevant $x$ solution against the parameter $k$ in a smooth curve.

Note: I also tried the unglorious method i.e. if $k$ took discrete values, I thought I could manually select say 30 points and interpolate. But any curve fitting command I tried, using various polynomial and exponential expansions, could not give me smooth curve?

Of course I hope to learn the elegant method, but under time pressure anything that gives me a smooth curve is welcome!

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    $\begingroup$ A lot easier if you show what f looks like. $\endgroup$
    – b.gates.you.know.what
    Sep 7, 2012 at 7:44
  • $\begingroup$ Well, FindRoot[] supports the option of root bracketing; if all you want is an approximate root, it should be fine. Otherwise, since you say it's quadratic in $x$, one could always manipulate the quadratic formula... $\endgroup$
    – J. M.'s lack of A.I. ♦
    Sep 7, 2012 at 8:14

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As J. M. says, FindRoot allows two options: either root bracketing, or the simpler choice of starting with an initial approximation for the root that is close enough. Since you said your root is unique in the [0,0.5] interval, and your function is smooth, you can expect that a starting value of 0.25 will usually give you the root you're looking for.

f[x_] := Expand[(x - 0.5*Sin[k^2])*(x - 3*k - 1)]
Plot[x /. FindRoot[f[x], {x, 0.25}], {k, 0, 1}]

            enter image description here

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    $\begingroup$ Additionally, as a guarantee that the iteration never veers off the brackets you have set up, use Brent's method (i.e. append the option setting Method -> "Brent" to FindRoot[]). $\endgroup$
    – J. M.'s lack of A.I. ♦
    Sep 7, 2012 at 9:48
  • $\begingroup$ Thank you, it works. Only thing is, when desireable solutions x*(k) approach 0 as parameter k is changed towards one end of the parameter range, the solution becomes discontinuous ..although i know there does exist a finite, smooth x(k).. $\endgroup$
    – user2297
    Sep 14, 2012 at 9:18
  • $\begingroup$ @ridwandrusli we have no way of helping you more if you don't post your function (or better, your current code) $\endgroup$
    – F'x
    Sep 14, 2012 at 9:35

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