Solving Differential Operator with D for 4(x^2)(D^2)+12xD+3

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a differential equation represented in operator form, specifically involving the differential operator D, with the equation [4(x^2)(D^2)+12xD+3]y=0. The subject area is differential equations, particularly focusing on methods applicable to variable coefficients.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the transition from operator notation to traditional derivative notation, questioning how to approach the problem using D directly. Some suggest treating D as a derivative operator and solving accordingly, while others discuss the challenges of factoring differential operators with variable coefficients.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing their thoughts on how to handle the equation. Some have proposed treating it as a standard Euler-Cauchy equation and looking for solutions of a specific form. There is acknowledgment of the complexity introduced by variable coefficients, and participants are seeking clarification on the implications of this complexity.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the treatment of the differential operator D and its non-commutative properties when dealing with variable coefficients. Participants express uncertainty about the effectiveness of certain methods in this context.

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for the following question:
[4(x^2)(D^2)+12xD+3)]y=0

my problem:
i only know how to solve this type of question if i change it back to its original form. however, if i want to solve it by just using D, how would i do that?
 
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What do you mean its original form?

And what are you expected to do with this equation anyway?
 
i mean that if i changed the D to y``
 
OH! Well I guess just treat Dy as dy/dx and solve as you would.
 
quasar987 said:
OH! Well I guess just treat Dy as dy/dx and solve as you would.

I looked at it early this morning and even briefly posted what I though was the factored form of the differential operators and even though it resulted in a correct answer, my factored version was incorrect because the differential operators are NOT commutative. Turns out equations with functions of x are not easily factored for this reason, something I'm not clear on. So I would just treat it as a regular Euler-Cauchy equation and look for a solution of the form:

[tex]y=x^{m}[/tex]

(unless someone can further comment about the factoring).:smile:
 
Last edited:
i had the same problem as you when i tried to factor it too~
 
This ia a quadratic in D.Just find out D using the formula used for quadratic equations and then proceed
 
Harmeet Singh said:
This ia a quadratic in D.Just find out D using the formula used for quadratic equations and then proceed
The whole point is that this is an equation with VARIABLE coefficients. That method doesn't work with variable coefficients.
 
@@ why doesn't it work for variable coefficients?
 

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