A Difficult Differential Equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a complex differential equation derived from a thought experiment. Participants explore the challenges of solving this non-linear second-order ordinary differential equation (ODE) and consider both analytical and numerical methods for finding solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a differential equation involving parameters and expresses difficulty in solving it, particularly noting the dependence on the parameter R.
  • Another participant identifies the equation as a homogeneous, second-order, non-linear ODE and suggests that while a closed-form solution may be challenging, numerical methods could be effective.
  • Several participants share attachments that presumably contain additional information or methods related to solving the ODE.
  • One participant points out an error in an attachment regarding the placement of a square root in an integral, indicating that this mistake affects the subsequent results.
  • Another participant acknowledges the error and mentions they are working on integrating the corrected equation.
  • A later post shares a corrected attachment, claiming that the result is simpler than previously presented.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the solution to the differential equation. There are multiple viewpoints regarding the methods of solution, including both numerical approaches and corrections to earlier submissions.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of the differential equation and the potential for errors in attachments, which may affect the understanding and solutions proposed. The discussion reflects ongoing refinements and corrections to the mathematical approach.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying differential equations, particularly in the context of non-linear ODEs, as well as individuals looking for collaborative problem-solving approaches in mathematical physics.

Radek Vavra
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So, as a result of a thought experiment, I've got a differential equation, which I can't solve:

[itex] R r'' \sin \frac{r}{R} - 2 (r')^2 \cos \frac{r}{R} - R^2 \cos \frac{r}{R} \sin^2 \frac{r}{R} = 0[/itex], [itex]R > 0[/itex]

To make the matters worse, the function [itex]r(\varphi)[/itex] will probably depend on multiple parameters, because when I put [itex]r << R[/itex], I could approximate the equation:

[itex] r r'' - 2 (r')^2 - r^2 = 0[/itex]

which gave solution (mostly by lucky guess):

[itex] r = \frac{a}{\sin \varphi + b \cos \varphi}[/itex], [itex]a\in\mathbb R[/itex], [itex]b\in\mathbb R[/itex]

Since I'm used only to the simplest types of differential equations, could you please help me and describe every step :shy:
 
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You've got a homogeneous, second order, non-linear ODE. A closed form solution will be difficult to come by, but numerical methods of solution should work.
 
Hi !
See attachment :
 

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JJacquelin said:
Hi !
See attachment :
Oh, thank you!
 
Sorry, there is a mistake in the attached document:
From d(rho)/d(phi)=f , in the integral the square root should be at denominator instead of numerator. This changes all what follows and result.
Nevertheless, the method to solve the ODE has been explained.
 
JJacquelin said:
Sorry, there is a mistake in the attached document:
From d(rho)/d(phi)=f , in the integral the square root should be at denominator instead of numerator. This changes all what follows and result.
Nevertheless, the method to solve the ODE has been explained.
I've noticed :) I'm currently trying to integrate the changed equation.
 
Below, the corrected attachment :
The result is much simpler.
 

Attachments

  • ODE.JPG
    ODE.JPG
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