Eigenvalues of Laplacian with Boundary Condition

Therefore, in summary, the Laplacian has an eigenvalue equal to zero with a nonzero constant function satisfying the homogeneous Neumann boundary condition.
  • #1
mmmboh
407
0
Given a bounded domain with the homogeneous Neumann boundary condition, show that the Laplacian has an eigenvalue equal to zero (show that there is a nonzero function u such that ∆u = 0, with the homogeneous Neumann B.C.).

I said: ∇•(u∇u)=u∆u+∇u2, since ∆u = 0, we have ∇•(u∇u)=∇u2

∫ ∇•(u∇u) dV = ∫ ∇u2 dV, and by divergence theorem on the left hand side, we get ∫ (u∇u)•dS=∫ ∇u2 dV, but since ∇u is zero on the boundary, we have

∫ ∇u2 dV=0. Since the integrand is non-negative, ∇u=0, which means u is constant.

This can't be the right answer, could it?! It seems way to trivial, I could have just said if u is constant, then it satisfies the question trivially...Did I do something wrong? am I misunderstanding the question?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
No, you are right. Your answer is correct. The Laplacian has an eigenvalue of zero with a corresponding nonzero function u that is constant. This is because a constant function satisfies the homogeneous Neumann boundary condition and its Laplacian is equal to zero.
 

Related to Eigenvalues of Laplacian with Boundary Condition

1. What is the Laplacian operator?

The Laplacian operator is a mathematical operator used in multivariable calculus to measure the curvature and variation of a function. It is denoted by ∆ or ∇² and is defined as the sum of the second-order partial derivatives of a function.

2. What are eigenvalues and eigenvectors?

Eigenvalues and eigenvectors are concepts in linear algebra that are used to describe the behavior of a linear transformation or matrix. Eigenvalues are scalars that represent the magnitude of the transformation, while eigenvectors represent the direction of the transformation.

3. What is the significance of eigenvalues of the Laplacian operator with boundary conditions?

The eigenvalues of the Laplacian operator with boundary conditions represent the possible frequencies at which a physical system can vibrate or oscillate. This is useful in applications such as analyzing the behavior of vibrating membranes or the stability of fluids.

4. How are eigenvalues of the Laplacian with boundary conditions calculated?

The eigenvalues of the Laplacian operator with boundary conditions can be found by solving the eigenvalue problem, which involves finding the values of λ for which the equation ∆u = λu holds true. This can be done using various numerical methods or analytical techniques, depending on the complexity of the problem.

5. What are some real-life applications of eigenvalues of the Laplacian with boundary conditions?

The eigenvalues of the Laplacian with boundary conditions have various applications in physics, engineering, and other fields. Some examples include analyzing the stability of structures, predicting the behavior of vibrating systems, and solving partial differential equations in fluid dynamics.

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
296
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
826
  • Differential Equations
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Differential Equations
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top