Cobweb and staircase diagrams
What Cobweb and staircase diagrams means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Cobweb and staircase diagrams
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Cobweb and staircase diagrams in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
A cobweb diagram plots the iteration against the line y = x, spiralling inwards for oscillating convergence, while a staircase diagram shows a monotonic approach stepping in one direction towards the intersection.
Topics that use Cobweb and staircase diagrams
- Numerical methods (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Bisection and interval narrowing
- change of sign
- cobweb diagram
- Concave up
- Convergence
- Convergence and the gradient condition
- divergence
- Failure cases of numerical methods
Using Cobweb and staircase diagrams in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Mathematics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge