What is the physical meaning of this eqn

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The discussion centers on the equation m(d^(2)x/dt^(2)) + kx^n = 0, specifically exploring the implications of raising x to a power n. When n is an odd number, the system is classified as a non-linear oscillator. The term "wavefunction" is incorrectly applied to x(t); instead, a wavefunction should be represented as y(x,t) for a transverse wave. This distinction is crucial for accurate terminology in wave mechanics.

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I am doing a research about the wave function. I am planning on take ing the way function and changing the power on the x.
m(d^(2)x/dt^(2)) + kx^n =0

What is the physical meaning when you do make the x rasied to some power?

Thanks
 
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If n is not 1, but odd, you could call it a non-linear oscillator.
 
MarkB said:
I am doing a research about the wave function. I am planning on take ing the way function and changing the power on the x.
m(d^(2)x/dt^(2)) + kx^n =0

What is the physical meaning when you do make the x rasied to some power?

Thanks
Arildno gave a good answer.
Note: you should not call x(t) a "wavefunction". A wavefunction would be, say y(x,t) for a transverse wave on a string (as one example).
 

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