Series solution to Second-order ODE

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the first four non-vanishing terms in a series solution for an initial value problem involving a second-order differential equation. The solution involves taking the second derivative of the given series form and substituting it into the ODE. However, there is uncertainty about how to proceed from there.
  • #1
tracedinair
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Homework Statement



Find the first four non-vanishing terms in a series solution of the form [tex]\sum[/tex] from 0 to infinity of akxk for the initial value problem,

4xy''(x) + 6y'(x) + y(x) = 0, y(0) = 1 and y'(0) = -1/6

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



Taking the second derivative of the series solution form I obtained,

y = [tex]\sum[/tex] from 0 to infinity of akxk
y' = [tex]\sum[/tex] from 1 to infinity of kakxk-1
y'' = [tex]\sum[/tex] from 0 to infinity of (k+2)(k+1)ak+2xk

Substituting into the ODE I obtained,

4[tex]\sum[/tex] from 0 to infinity of (k+2)(k+1)ak+2xk+1 + 6[tex]\sum[/tex] from 1 to infinity of kakxk-1 + [tex]\sum[/tex] from 0 to infinity of akxk

Now, I am unsure of where to go from here. Does this become two separate series for [tex]\sum[/tex] from 0 to infinity and [tex]\sum[/tex] from 1 to infinity?
 
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  • #2
No, it should be written as one series. Note that your series from 1 to infinity can just as well be written as from 0 to infinity, because kak is zero when k=0.
 

1. What is a series solution?

A series solution is a method of solving a second-order ordinary differential equation (ODE) by expressing the solution as an infinite sum of terms.

2. When is a series solution used?

A series solution is used when the ODE cannot be solved by standard methods such as separation of variables or substitution.

3. How does a series solution work?

A series solution involves substituting the infinite sum of terms into the ODE and solving for the coefficients of each term. These coefficients are then used to construct the general solution.

4. What are the advantages of using a series solution?

Series solutions can provide an accurate solution for a wide range of ODEs, including those that cannot be solved by other methods. They also allow for the inclusion of initial conditions, making them useful for solving boundary value problems.

5. Are there any limitations to using a series solution?

Series solutions may not always converge, meaning that the solution may not be valid for all values of the independent variable. They also require a significant amount of computation, which can be time-consuming.

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