Periodic Solutions to DE with Extra Condition: Solving for Unknown Constants

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In summary, the conversation discusses using an extra condition in the problem of finding the solution for f'' + λf = 0, where f=f(r). It is mentioned that for λ = 0, the solution is a constant and for other values of λ, it can be expressed as f'' + k^2f = 0 with the solution f(r) = Acos(kr) + Bsin(kr). The extra condition is then introduced and it is deduced that k must be an even integer in order for the solution to be specified.
  • #1
Zaare
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I don't know how to use the extra condition given in the this problem:


[tex]f^{\prime\prime}+\lambda f = 0[/tex], [tex]f=f\left(r\right)[/tex]
[tex]f\left(r\right) = f\left(r+\pi\right)[/tex]

For [tex]\lambda = 0[/tex], the solution is some constant.
For other [tex]\lambda[/tex], I put [tex]\lambda=k^2[/tex], and get


[tex]f^{\prime\prime}+k^2 f = 0[/tex],

which has the solution


[tex]f\left(r\right)=A\cos\left(kr\right)+B\sin\left(kr\right).[/tex]

The condition now gives


[tex]A\cos\left(kr\right)+B\sin\left(kr\right)=
A\cos\left(kr+k\pi\right)+B\sin\left(kr+k\pi\right).[/tex]

How can I use this to further specify the solution?
 
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  • #2
Well, you know that [tex]\cos{x} + \sin{x} = \cos{(x+2n\pi)} + \sin{(x+2n\pi)}[/tex] for all x only when n is an integer. What does that tell you about k, and therefore [itex]\lambda[/itex]?
 
  • #3
Oh, right, so k must be an even integer.
Thank you. :smile:
 

Related to Periodic Solutions to DE with Extra Condition: Solving for Unknown Constants

1. What is a periodic solution to a differential equation?

A periodic solution to a differential equation is a function that repeats itself at regular intervals, where the value of the function at each interval is determined by the differential equation. In other words, the function has a repetitive pattern that is determined by the equation.

2. How do you find a periodic solution to a differential equation?

To find a periodic solution to a differential equation, you can use various mathematical techniques such as separation of variables, substitution, and integration. You can also use computer software programs to solve the equation numerically.

3. What types of differential equations have periodic solutions?

There are many types of differential equations that can have periodic solutions, including linear and nonlinear equations. Some specific examples include the harmonic oscillator equation, the pendulum equation, and the Van der Pol equation.

4. Can all periodic solutions be expressed as a mathematical formula?

No, not all periodic solutions can be expressed as a mathematical formula. Some differential equations have solutions that can only be expressed graphically or numerically. In certain cases, a periodic solution may not exist at all.

5. Why are periodic solutions important in science and engineering?

Periodic solutions are important in science and engineering because they can help predict the behavior of systems over time. Many physical phenomena, such as oscillations and vibrations, can be described by periodic solutions to differential equations. This allows scientists and engineers to understand and control these systems more effectively.

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