Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 October 2008
In numerical solution of a Sturm-Liouville system, it is necessary to determine an eigenvalue by a method of successive approximation. A relation is derived between the estimated accuracy of an approximate eigenvalue and the accuracy at every point of its corresponding eigenfunction. A method is also described whereby the correction to a trial eigenvalue, required for convergence to its true value, can be automatically determined. This method has been successfully used in solving radial wave-function equations, both with and without ‘exchange’, arising from the Hartree-Slater-Fock analysis of Schrödinger's equation.