Ordinary Differential Equation Series Solution

In summary, the conversation is discussing an initial value problem with the equation y' = sqrt(1-y^2) and the initial condition y(0) = 0. The first part of the conversation focuses on showing that y = sinx is a solution to the initial value problem. The second part looks for a solution in the form of a power series about x = 0 and aims to find coefficients up to the third term in the series. Various solutions and attempts are discussed, including using the general solution series for y and y'. The conversation ends with a question about which series would allow for the evaluation of the x^3 term.
  • #1
EnzoF61
14
0

Homework Statement


y' = [tex]\sqrt{(1-y^2)
}[/tex]
Initial condition y(0) = 0
a) Show y = sinx is a solution of the initial value problem.
b) Look for a solution of the initial value problem in the form of a power series about x = 0. Find coefficients up to the term in x^3 in this series.

Homework Equations



part a) was Ok.

The Attempt at a Solution


This is for my part b attempt.

(y')^2 + (y)^2 = 1

(cosx)^2 + (sinx)^2 = 1

[tex]\sum(-1)^ {2n} * (x^ {4n} )}/(2n!)^2[/tex] + [tex]\sum (-1)^{2n} * (x^ {4n+2})/((2n+1)!)^2[/tex] = 1

I had also tried the general solution series for y and y'. y = a0 + a1x + ... + an*x^n
y' = a1 + ... + n*an x^n
Please note the values such as a0, a1, ...an have the nth term as a subscript.

Maybe I should not be using part a where y=sinx and y'=cosx because I will have even powers when squared always...?

What series will allow me to evaluate at the x^3 term?

Thanks,
-Adam
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Double posted.
 

1. What is the purpose of using series solutions for ordinary differential equations?

Series solutions are used to find approximate solutions to differential equations that cannot be solved analytically or through other methods. They provide an alternative approach to solving these equations in cases where other methods may be too complex or not applicable.

2. How are series solutions different from exact solutions for ordinary differential equations?

Exact solutions provide a precise solution to a differential equation, while series solutions provide an approximation that becomes more accurate as more terms in the series are included. Series solutions are often used when exact solutions are not possible or are too difficult to find.

3. What is the process for finding a series solution for an ordinary differential equation?

The process involves expressing the differential equation as a series, known as a power series, and then solving for the coefficients of the series. This is typically done through substitution and manipulation of the terms in the series. The series can then be simplified and the solution can be approximated by including more terms in the series.

4. How do series solutions help in understanding the behavior of a differential equation?

Series solutions provide a way to approximate the behavior of a differential equation near a certain point or for a specific range of values. By including more terms in the series, the approximation becomes more accurate and can give insight into the overall behavior of the equation.

5. What are some limitations of using series solutions for ordinary differential equations?

Series solutions can only provide an approximation of the solution, which may not be as accurate as an exact solution. Additionally, finding the coefficients of the series can be a complex and time-consuming process, and the series may not converge for certain equations or initial conditions.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
400
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
228
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
745
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
366
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
557
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
942
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
692
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
265
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
514
Back
Top