How Does Changing Variables Simplify Nonlinear PDEs?

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the chain rule to obtain a second equation from a given nonlinear PDE with a new variable. The process involves replacing s with x=s-t and using the chain rule to get the desired equation. The speaker also mentions a different approach to solving the equation.
  • #1
aquarian11
6
0
I need guidance regarding PDE.
If u have a nonlinear PDE as
Ut+Us+a*U*Us*b*Usss=0
where U is function of (s,t) and a,b are constants.
by introducing new variable x=s-t we will get
Ut+a*U*Ux+b*Uxxx=0
Ut means partial derivative w.r.t time
Us means partial derivative w.r.t s.

How can we get the second equation from the first one?
 
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  • #2
By using the chain rule.

[tex]U_s= U_t \frac{\partial t}{\partial s}+ U_x\frac{\partial x}{\partial s}[/tex]
Note: if you are going to use x= s- t to replace s only, you will need to think of s as a function of the other variable, t.
If x= s- t, then s= s+ t so both partial derivatives are 1:
[tex]U_s= U_t+ U_x[/itex]
[tex]U_ss= (U_t+ U_x)_s= (U_t+ U_x)_t + (U_t+ U_x)_x= U_tt+ 2U_tx+ U
_xx[/tex]

Similarly,
[tex]U_sss= U_ttt+ 3Uttx+ 3Utxx+ Uxxx[/tex]
Sustitute those into you equation.
 
  • #3
Subsituting these , will not give me the desired equation.
 
  • #4
I have solve it, same concept of chain rule but with different approach.
 

Related to How Does Changing Variables Simplify Nonlinear PDEs?

What is a change of variables in PDEs?

A change of variables in PDEs is a mathematical technique used to transform a given set of variables in a partial differential equation (PDE) into a new set of variables. This can help simplify the equation or make it more easily solvable.

Why is a change of variables important in solving PDEs?

A change of variables can make a PDE easier to solve by transforming it into a form that is more familiar or simpler to work with. It can also help to reduce the number of variables in the equation, making it less complex.

What are the different types of change of variables used in PDEs?

There are two main types of change of variables used in PDEs: coordinate transformation and variable transformation. Coordinate transformation involves changing the coordinate system used to describe the problem, while variable transformation involves replacing the original variables with new ones.

How do I know when to use a change of variables in solving a PDE?

A change of variables is often used when the original set of variables in a PDE are difficult to work with, or when the equation is in a form that is not easily solvable. It can also be used to simplify the equation or make it more suitable for a specific solution method.

What are the limitations of using a change of variables in PDEs?

While a change of variables can be useful in solving PDEs, it is not always possible to find a suitable transformation that will simplify the equation. Additionally, the process of finding the appropriate change of variables can be time-consuming and may not always lead to a solution.

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