A. M. Ostrowski 
Solution of Equations and Systems of Equations [PDF ebook] 
Pure and Applied Mathematics: A Series of Monographs and Textbooks, Vol. 9

Solution of Equations and Systems of Equations, Second Edition deals with the Laguerre iteration, interpolating polynomials, method of steepest descent, and the theory of divided differences. The book reviews the formula for confluent divided differences, Newton’s interpolation formula, general interpolation problems, and the triangular schemes for computing divided differences. The text explains the method of False Position (Regula Falsi) and cites examples of computation using the Regula Falsi. The book discusses iterations by monotonic iterating functions and analyzes the connection of the Regula Falsi with the theory of iteration. The text also explains the idea of the Newton-Raphson method and compares it with the Regula Falsi. The book also cites asymptotic behavior of errors in the Regula Falsi iteration, as well as the theorem on the error of the Taylor approximation to the root. The method of steepest descent or gradient method proposed by Cauchy ensures "global convergence" in very general conditions. This book is suitable for mathematicians, students, and professor of calculus, and advanced mathematics.