Computational error is a significant concern in computer mathematics, as it can lead to inaccurate

results and misleading conclusions. There are various types of computational errors that can occur in
computer mathematics, each with its own causes and consequences. In this essay, I will explain four
types of computational error in computer mathematics, including rounding error, truncation error,
propagation of error, and catastrophic cancellation.

Rounding error is one of the most common types of computational error in computer mathematics. It
occurs when a mathematical operation yields a result that is not exact due to the limited precision of the
computer's arithmetic. Rounding error can occur in any operation that involves floating-point numbers,
such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. In many cases, rounding error can be
minimized by using higher precision arithmetic, but it is still an inherent limitation of computer
mathematics.

Truncation error is another type of computational error that can occur in computer mathematics. It
occurs when an approximation is used to represent an exact mathematical operation. Truncation error
often occurs in numerical integration, where an infinite series is approximated by a finite sum. As the
number of terms in the approximation increases, the truncation error decreases, but it can never be
completely eliminated. Truncation error can also occur in other computational algorithms, such as the
finite difference method for solving differential equations.

Propagation of error is a type of computational error that occurs when errors in the input data of a
mathematical operation propagate through the computation, leading to an erroneous result. This type
of error can occur in complex mathematical models that involve multiple intermediate calculations, such
as simulations of physical systems or financial models. Propagation of error is a significant concern in
these applications, as small errors in the input data can lead to large errors in the final result. Various
techniques, such as error analysis and sensitivity analysis, can be used to quantify and mitigate the
propagation of error in these applications.

Catastrophic cancellation is a particularly insidious type of computational error that can occur in
computer mathematics. It occurs when two nearly equal numbers are subtracted, leading to a loss of
significant digits in the result. This can occur in numerical algorithms that involve the subtraction of large
numbers with small differences, such as the solution of linear systems or the computation of
eigenvalues. Catastrophic cancellation can lead to significant loss of precision in the result, and it is often
difficult to detect and correct.
In conclusion, computational error is a significant concern in computer mathematics, as it can lead to
inaccurate results and misleading conclusions. Rounding error, truncation error, propagation of error,
and catastrophic cancellation are four types of computational error that can occur in computer
mathematics, each with its own causes and consequences. It is important for practitioners of computer
mathematics to be aware of these types of error and to take appropriate measures to mitigate their
effects. Various techniques, such as error analysis, sensitivity analysis, and higher precision arithmetic,
can be used to minimize the impact of computational error and to ensure the accuracy of mathematical
computations in the computer environment.

References:

Golub, G. H., & Van Loan, C. F. (2013). Matrix computations (4th ed.). Baltimore, MD: Johns Hopkins
University Press.

Higham, N. J. (2002). Accuracy and stability of numerical algorithms (2nd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: SIAM.

Press, W. H., Teukolsky, S. A., Vetterling, W. T., & Flannery, B. P. (2007). Numerical recipes: The art of
scientific computing (3rd ed.). Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.