Classifying Equation 1: Linear, Semilinear or Quasilinear?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on classifying the equation $u_{x_1}+u_{x_2}=u^{3/2}$ as linear, semilinear, or quasilinear. Participants explore the definitions and criteria for each classification in the context of partial differential equations (PDEs).

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that the equation is not linear due to the presence of the term $u^{3/2}$, which is not of first grade.
  • One participant provides the general form required for a first-order PDE to be classified as linear and questions whether the given equation can be expressed in that form.
  • Another participant suggests that if $a=b=1$, then $c$ must be determined, implying a need for further analysis.
  • One participant claims that the equation is linear because the operators $u_{x_1}$ and $u_{x_2}$ are linear, but this is challenged by others who argue that linearity of the operators does not imply the entire equation is linear.
  • Some participants agree that the equation is quasilinear based on its form, while others clarify that it cannot be classified as semilinear due to the non-linear principal part.
  • A later reply corrects an earlier statement, emphasizing that the equation is indeed quasilinear and reiterating the definitions involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the equation is quasilinear, but there is disagreement regarding its classification as linear or semilinear. The discussion remains unresolved on the linearity aspect.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific forms and definitions for linear, semilinear, and quasilinear equations, but there are unresolved assumptions regarding the implications of these classifications.

Julio1
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Classify the equation $u_{x_1}+u_{x_2}=u^{3/2}$ depending on if is linear, semilinear or quasilinear.

Hello MathHelpBoards :). The equation isn't linear? How prove this?
 
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Well, for a first-order pde in one dependent variable and two independent variables to be linear, you have to be able to write it as follows:
$$a(x_1,x_2) \, \frac{\partial u(x_1,x_2)}{\partial x_1}+b(x_1,x_2) \, \frac{\partial u(x_1,x_2)}{\partial x_2}+c(x_1,x_2) \, u(x_1,x_2)=d(x_1,x_2).$$
The RHS, being what it is, precludes being able to write it like this. Now the quasi-linear criteria is that you can write it like this:
$$a(x_1,x_2,u(x_1,x_2)) \, \frac{\partial u(x_1,x_2)}{\partial x_1}+b(x_1,x_2,u(x_1,x_2)) \, \frac{\partial u(x_1,x_2)}{\partial x_2}=c(x_1,x_2,u(x_1,x_2)).$$
Can you write your pde in this form?
 
Hello Ackbach :). I have clear that isn't linear, because the term $u^{3/2}$ isn't of first grade. Is this the explained?

But I don't how show that the equation is or not semilinear or quasi-linear. Can any help me please?
 
How about $a=b=1$, and then $c$ would have to equal...?
 
OK, then the equation is linear, because the operators $u_x$ and $u_y$ are linear. Therefore the equation isn't semilinear, because the equation is linear. Is quasilinear, because have the form for the definition.

This is right? :)
 
I would agree that the equation is quasi-linear. Your first sentence contradicts your latter sentences! Just because the operators on the LHS are linear (which is true) doesn't mean the equation is linear!
 
Ackbach said:
I would agree that the equation is quasi-linear. Your first sentence contradicts your latter sentences! Just because the operators on the LHS are linear (which is true) doesn't mean the equation is linear!

Thanks! Sorry, is a mistake.

The equation is quasi-linear because have the form for the definition, have that $c=u^{3/2}=(u(x_1,x_2))^{3/2}.$

The equation is linear because have the form:

$\dfrac{\partial u}{\partial x_1}(x_1,x_2)+\dfrac{\partial u}{\partial x_2}(x_1,x_2)+(-1)u^{3/2}=0$ where $a=b=1, c=-1.$

The equation isn't semilinear, because haven't principal part linear :).

I correct now?
 
Yep, looks good to me!
 
Thanks Ackbach :)!
 

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