Solution of the f_1(x)-f_1(x-pi)=f_2(x) functional equation

In summary, the conversation discusses the Laplace transform of equation [1] and rearranging it to equation [4]. It then introduces equation [5] and the possibility of determining the explicit formula of f1, but concludes that it is not possible due to the periodic nature of the function.
  • #1
Domdamo
12
0
Homework Statement
We have the equation
f1(x)-f1(x-pi)=f2(x)
where f1, f2 are the unknown and the known functions, respectively.
f1, f2 are periodic functions with period 2pi.

Is it possible to determine the explicit formula of f1?
If yes how should we calculate it?
Relevant Equations
[1]
f1(x)-f1(x-pi)=f2(x)
[2]
f1(x)=f1(x+2pi)
[3]
f2(x)=f2(x+2pi)
Laplace transform of eq. [1]
[4]
F1(p)-exp{-pi*p}*F1(p) = F2(p)
Rearranging eq. [4]
[5]
F1(p) = frac{1}{1-exp{-pi*p}}*F2(p)
Inverse LT of eq. [5]
 
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  • #2
Hi,

You might want to learn a little ##\LaTeX## so that your f1(x)-f1(x-pi)=f2(x) becomes

$$f_1(x)-f_1(x-\pi)=f_2(x)$$ and looks like $$f_1(x)-f_1(x-\pi)=f_2(x)$$
Re:
Domdamo said:
Is it possible to determine the explicit formula of f1?
No. Lots of ##f_1## can be constructed since e.g. ##\sin(\alpha) - \sin(\pi-\alpha) = 0## and ##\sin(n\beta)## is periodical with period ##2\pi## .
So any multiple of any function (periodical with period ##2\pi## ) that has ##f_1(x)-f_1(x-\pi)=0## can be added to a candidate ##f_1##.

[edit]Oops, sign errors...
 
  • Like
Likes Domdamo
  • #3
Recant: any function with period ##\pi/n## has ##f(x) - f(x-\pi) = 0##.
 
  • #4
Thank you very much.
 

1. What is a functional equation?

A functional equation is an equation that involves a function or multiple functions. It is different from a regular algebraic equation because the unknown variable is a function instead of a number.

2. What is the solution to the f1(x) - f1(x - π) = f2(x) functional equation?

The solution to this functional equation is not a single function, but rather a set of functions that satisfy the equation. These functions can be found by using algebraic manipulation and substitution.

3. Can this functional equation be solved for any type of function?

Yes, this functional equation can be solved for any type of function as long as the functions involved are well-defined and continuous.

4. What are some real-life applications of functional equations?

Functional equations can be used to model various phenomena in the natural and social sciences, such as population growth, economic trends, and physical systems. They are also commonly used in engineering and computer science to solve optimization problems.

5. Are there any specific techniques or strategies for solving functional equations?

There are various techniques and strategies that can be used to solve functional equations, such as substitution, iteration, and algebraic manipulation. It is important to carefully analyze the given equation and try different approaches until a solution is found.

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