Help needed for solving 2nd order differential equation

In summary, the conversation is about solving a non-linear differential equation that takes a specific form, which is related to a physics problem involving a spring-mass-damper system. The participants discuss the possibility of finding an analytic solution, but conclude that a numerical solution may be necessary.
  • #1
kemiao
3
0
can someone help me solve the differential equation that takes the following form?

y''+Ay'+By+Cy^2=f(x), y is function of x

Thanks a lot!
 
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  • #2
Move to math forum - diff. eq.
 
  • #3
thanks, it actually applies to a specific physics problem

thanks. it actually applies to a specific physics problem.
i am trying to solve this for a non-linear spring-mass-damper system where the spring stiffness is not constant, but linearly proportional to displacement. thanks!
 
  • #4
Since the DE is non-linear, a numerical solution would probably be called for.
 
  • #5
thanks a lot. is there a way to solve it analytically using method of successive approximations?
i'd imagine the solution could take a form of something like
y(x) = A1*cos(x)+A2*x^2*cos(2x)+A3*x^3*cos(3x)+...

SteamKing said:
Since the DE is non-linear, a numerical solution would probably be called for.
 
  • #6
SteamKing said:
Since the DE is non-linear, a numerical solution is probably called for.

Agreed. You might be lucky and find an analytic solution for particular parameter values and a particular f(x), but a general analytic solution is probably not possible.
 

Related to Help needed for solving 2nd order differential equation

1. What is a 2nd order differential equation?

A 2nd order differential equation is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between a function and its derivatives up to the second order. It is commonly used in physics and engineering to model systems with acceleration, such as motion or vibrations.

2. How do I solve a 2nd order differential equation?

To solve a 2nd order differential equation, you will need to use techniques such as separation of variables, substitution, or variation of parameters. It is important to identify the type of differential equation and use the appropriate method to find a solution.

3. Can a 2nd order differential equation have more than one solution?

Yes, a 2nd order differential equation can have multiple solutions. This is because there can be different initial conditions or constants of integration that lead to different solutions. In some cases, there may also be families of solutions that satisfy the same equation.

4. What are some real-life applications of 2nd order differential equations?

2nd order differential equations are used in many fields of science and engineering to model various physical phenomena, such as the motion of a pendulum, the behavior of electrical circuits, and the growth of populations. They are also commonly used in control theory and signal processing.

5. Are there any software programs or calculators that can solve 2nd order differential equations?

Yes, there are many software programs and online calculators available that can solve 2nd order differential equations. Some popular examples include MATLAB, Wolfram Alpha, and Symbolab. However, it is still important to have a good understanding of the underlying concepts and techniques to accurately interpret and use the results from these tools.

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