Interpreting Complex Eigenvalues in Comsol Analysis

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In summary, complex eigenvalues are a mathematical concept used in Comsol analysis to describe the stability, oscillation, and response of a system. They are calculated using the finite element method and can significantly affect the simulation results. Strategies for interpreting complex eigenvalues include plotting them as a function of a parameter, comparing them to reference values, and considering their physical meaning.
  • #1
ra123
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Hey,
Im working with Comsol and doing some eigenvalue analysis.
Why is sometimes the eigenvalues are complex numbers and not real number frequencies?
How should I interpret these complex eigenvalues?
Thanks
 
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  • #2
They are sometimes imaginary because, at the heart of eigenvalue solving (the ones that I know of anyways) is solving a polynomial for it's roots. For example, finding the principal stresses in a 3x3 stress tensor is an eigenvalue problem. In that you are solving for the roots of a third order polynomial.
 
  • #3
okaay great, so can i just take the absolute value as the eigenfrequency to work with?
 

Related to Interpreting Complex Eigenvalues in Comsol Analysis

What are complex eigenvalues and why are they important in Comsol analysis?

Complex eigenvalues are a mathematical concept used to describe the behavior of a system. In Comsol analysis, they are important because they give information about the stability and oscillation of a system, as well as the frequency and damping of the system's response.

How are complex eigenvalues calculated in Comsol analysis?

In Comsol, complex eigenvalues are calculated using the finite element method. This involves discretizing the system into smaller elements and solving a large system of equations to determine the eigenvalues and corresponding eigenvectors.

What do complex eigenvalues tell us about the behavior of a system?

Complex eigenvalues can tell us about the stability, oscillation, and response of a system. For example, a system with complex eigenvalues that have a positive real part is unstable and will continue to grow over time, while a system with complex eigenvalues that have a negative real part is stable and will eventually reach a steady state.

How do complex eigenvalues affect the simulation results in Comsol analysis?

Complex eigenvalues can significantly affect the simulation results in Comsol analysis. They can cause instabilities, oscillations, or damping in the system's response, which can lead to inaccurate or unreliable results. Therefore, it is important to carefully interpret and consider the complex eigenvalues in the analysis.

What are some strategies for interpreting complex eigenvalues in Comsol analysis?

One strategy for interpreting complex eigenvalues in Comsol analysis is to plot the eigenvalues as a function of a parameter in the system and observe any changes in the behavior. Another strategy is to compare the eigenvalues to a reference value or a known solution to determine if they are reasonable. Additionally, it is important to consider the physical meaning of the eigenvalues and how they relate to the system's behavior.

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