Recursion formula for power series solution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a recursion formula for the coefficients of a power series solution to a differential equation involving a term that can be expressed as a geometric series. The original poster is exploring the multiplication of power series and the implications for convergence.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to multiply two power series and is uncertain about the process due to differing powers of z. They also inquire about the radius of convergence for general initial conditions.
  • Some participants question the original poster's difficulties with series multiplication and suggest that the recurrence relation should be straightforward to derive.
  • One participant offers a basic multiplication example to clarify the concept.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights and seeking clarification on the multiplication of series. While there is no explicit consensus, guidance has been offered regarding the multiplication process and the nature of the recurrence relation.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the original poster's lack of familiarity with certain mathematical subtleties, which may affect their understanding of the problem. The discussion also highlights the need for clarity on convergence conditions related to the power series.

meteorologist1
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Hi, I'm trying to solve a differential equation and I'm supposed to obtain a recursion formula for the coefficients of the power series solution of the following equation:

w'' + (1/(1+z^2)) w = 0.

The term 1/(1+z^2) I recognize as a geometric series and can be expressed as sum of 0 to infinity of: (-z^2)^n.

But I'm having trouble multiplying it with w, which is also a power series. And also what is the radius of convergence for general initial conditions?

Thanks.
 
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For the second part,well I'm not really keen on mathematical subtleties...The series definitely have to converge and then u'll find the condition from the general recurrence relation.

As for the first,i cannot really understand your difficulties.U have to multiply 2 sums (never mind the sigma symbol and the infinite no.of terms).Can't u do it??

And then the recurrence relation is fairly easy to find...

Daniel.
 
I'm just a little rusty on multiplication of series, and especially in this case, you have different powers of z. For the first series: z to the power 2n, and the second series, z to the power n. I know the formula when the powers of z are the same. Would you mind showing me how it's done for this case?
 
What is the following product:
[tex](Ax^{n})(Bx^{m})[/tex]

If u know that,it's more than enough...

Daniel.
 
Ok. ABx^(m+n). Thanks.
 

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