Solve Wronskian Problem: Find g(t) from f(t)=t

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Gale
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Wronskian
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a Wronskian problem to find the function g(t) given f(t) = t. Participants explore the steps involved in solving a first-order linear differential equation derived from the Wronskian and identify potential errors in the integration process.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant derives the Wronskian and sets up the equation but believes they made an error in finding g(t).
  • Another participant questions the integrating factor used in the solution, suggesting it may be incorrect.
  • A participant acknowledges a mistake regarding the sign in the integrating factor, realizing it should be negative, which alters the outcome of the solution.
  • There is a discussion about the implications of double posting and the etiquette of forum contributions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the correctness of the integrating factor and the resulting solution for g(t). The discussion remains unresolved as participants have differing views on the steps taken in the solution process.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved issues regarding the integration steps and the handling of the integrating factor, particularly concerning the sign. The discussion reflects the complexity of the mathematical reasoning involved.

Gale
Messages
683
Reaction score
1
[tex]w[f,g](t)= t^2\exp{t}\\f(t)=t[/tex]

Thats what i get, the problem is to find g(t)

So, i start; f'(t)=1

[tex]w[f,g](t)= t^2\exp{t}=f(t)g'(t)-f'(t)g(t)\\t^2\exp{t}=tg'(t)-g(t)[/tex]

divide by t,

[tex]t\exp{t}=g'(t)-\frac{g(t)}{t}[/tex]

its a 1st order linear eq. I solve for the integrating factor and get t. i multiply through and reduce

[tex](tg(t))'=t^2\exp{t}[/tex]

then i integrate with the product rule and get

[tex]tg(t)=t^2\exp{t}+2t\exp{t}+C[/tex]

divide by t and get

[tex]g(t)=t\exp{t}+2\exp{t}+\frac{C}{t}[/tex]

which is wrong. The answer in the book is

[tex}t\exp{t}+Ct[/tex]

not sure where i went wrong, i know its probably something dumb, but its late, so i need help.

~gale~
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I don't like your integrating factor. When you expand out (t g(t))', you don't get the right thing.
 
Hurkyl said:
I don't like your integrating factor. When you expand out (t g(t))', you don't get the right thing.

mk, well, the int factor is

[tex]e^{\int{1/t}dt}{[/tex]

right? so the exponential and log cancel and t is all that's left... how's that wrong?

( i can't get the latex right on that, hope you get what i mean)
(also, i accidently posted twice, you can delete the other one... i don't know how)
 
Last edited:
oh i just realized, its supposed to be

[tex]e^{-\int{\frac{1}{t}dt}[/tex]

i forgot about that negative sign.
which makes my int factor 1/t which changes absolutely everything and makes the problem right... AUGH, DAMNED NEGATIVES... grr. thanks...
 
I really wish people would not post the same thing twice! I just posted a reply to the OTHER "Wronskian problem" before I saw that it had already been settled here.
 
i said sorry... i didn't mean to, and i couldn't delete it... :frown:
 
I hope you've got the point.No double posting...:rolleyes:You should have PM-ed a (preferably online) mentor/admin.He would have deleted the thread.

Daniel.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
6K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
810
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K