Undetermined coefficients help

In summary, the conversation involves a new member asking for help with a homework problem involving the use of the method of undetermined coefficients to solve a differential equation. The conversation also includes a reminder to show work and use the Homework Forums for textbook questions. The focus is on finding the particular solution by differentiating a product of two functions of x.
  • #1
brungus
1
0
Hi, new here, I am looking for some help on this homework problem. pretty sure you need to separate yp into 2 parts?

anyways, use method of undetermined coeff. to solve

y" + y = x*cos(x) - cos(x)

thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
brungus said:
Hi, new here, I am looking for some help on this homework problem. pretty sure you need to separate yp into 2 parts?

anyways, use method of undetermined coeff. to solve

y" + y = x*cos(x) - cos(x)

thanks.
Hi brungus and welcome to PF,

I'm assuming that you've found the homogeneous solution. For the particular solution, notice that we have a product of two functions of x. How does one usually differentiate a product of two functions?

Also for future reference, we have Homework Forums where you can post all your textbook questions :smile:.
 
  • #3
Why have you not shown any work? In particular, what do you get for the general solution to the corresponding homogeneous equation?
 

1. What is the concept of undetermined coefficients in scientific research?

Undetermined coefficients refer to a method used in scientific research to determine the values of unknown parameters in a mathematical model. These parameters cannot be directly measured and must be estimated using data or other known values.

2. How does the undetermined coefficients method work?

The undetermined coefficients method involves setting up a system of equations using the known data and unknown parameters. These equations are then solved simultaneously to find the values of the unknown parameters that best fit the data.

3. In what types of scientific studies is the undetermined coefficients method commonly used?

The undetermined coefficients method is commonly used in studies involving mathematical models, such as in physics, engineering, and economics. It is also used in statistical analysis to estimate unknown parameters in a data set.

4. What are the advantages of using the undetermined coefficients method?

One advantage of using the undetermined coefficients method is that it allows for the estimation of unknown parameters without the need for direct measurements, which can be difficult or impossible in certain situations. It also provides a systematic approach for finding the best fit for a mathematical model.

5. Are there any limitations or drawbacks to using the undetermined coefficients method?

One limitation of the undetermined coefficients method is that it relies heavily on the accuracy and quality of the data used. If the data is not representative or contains errors, the estimated parameters may not be accurate. Additionally, the method may not work well for complex models with many unknown parameters.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
444
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
641
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
966
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Back
Top