Frobenius Method: Finding Solutions for x^2*y"-x*y'+(x^2+1)y=0

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding solutions to the differential equation x²y'' - xy' + (x² + 1)y = 0 using the Frobenius method. Participants explore the derivation of the first solution and the subsequent approach to find a second solution, addressing challenges in simplifying the resulting expressions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a series solution for y, assuming y = Σ A_n * x^(n+r) and finds r = 1, leading to a general equation for A_n.
  • Another participant suggests writing A_n in product form to potentially simplify the expression, indicating a desire for a more manageable solution.
  • A third participant proposes using a reduction formula to derive the second solution y2 = y1 * integral(x * (y1)^(-2) * dx), expressing uncertainty about the correctness of their earlier solution for y1.
  • A participant comments on the etiquette of posting, advising against multiple posts in the thread.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not appear to reach a consensus, as participants express different approaches and uncertainties regarding the solutions and methods used.

Contextual Notes

Participants express concerns about the simplification of series solutions and the correctness of their derived expressions, indicating potential limitations in their current understanding or approach.

jason17349
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Somebody please help, I'm not sure I know what is going on with this.

My problem: find the first solution and use it to find the second solution for

x^2*y"-x*y'+(x^2+1)y=0

assuming y=summation from n=0 to infinity for An*x^n+r

substituting and solving gives me r=1 and a general equation: An=A(n-2)/((n+r)*(n+r-2)+1) for n >= 2

plugging r into my general equation gives An=A(n-2)/((n+1)*(n-1)+1) for n >= 2

plugging n into this I get y=A0*x+(1/4)A0*x^3+(1/64)A0*x^5+(1/2304)A0*x^7... this is y1

now y2=y1*v

I'm not entirely sure what to do after this because I'm unable to reduce y1 to a simple summation which is the only way I've seen this problem done before
 
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Maybe you could try to write A_n in product form to see if something more manageable pops out with a nice selection* of A_0.

*You know, the kind of selections people who already know the answer to the problem always do just to mock us mere mortals.
 
Using the reduction formula I came up with this solution:

y2=y1*integral(x*(y1)^(-2)*dx)

I don't know how to write math symbols in here so I attached a picture that is easier to understand.

does this seem like the correct solution? I'm also concerned about my answer for y1. The index value and power particularly.
 

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  • solutions.gif
    solutions.gif
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