Is there a unique solution to y'=\sqrt{y} with y(0) = 0?

In summary, the conversation discusses finding two solutions to the differential equation y'=\sqrt{y} with the initial condition y(0)=0. The first solution is y=\frac{t^2}{4} and the second solution is y=0. It is noted that Picard's uniqueness theorem does not apply in this case because \sqrt{y} is not Lipschitz continuous at y=0, allowing for multiple solutions. However, if y(0)>0, the existence of a unique solution can be proven as long as y stays greater than zero.
  • #1
mathman44
207
0

Homework Statement



Show that the DE [tex]y'=\sqrt{y}[/tex] has more than one solution when y(0) = 0 by finding two of them. Why does Picard's uniqueness theorem not apply?


The Attempt at a Solution



By standard ODE techniques, [tex]y=\frac{1}{4}[2c+c^2+t^2][/tex]

but if y(0)=0 then [tex]y=\frac{t^2}{4}[/tex] only.

I can't find another solution.
 
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  • #2
What's wrong with y(t)=0 for all t?
 
  • #3
And is because [tex]\sqrt{y}[/tex] isn't Lipschitz continuous that there is more than one solution?
 
  • #4
For example if y(0) > 0 and [tex]y=\frac{1}{4}[2c_1+c_1^2+t^2][/tex], then is the solution unique for all t > 0 since the function y' is Lipschitz continuous for all t > 0?
 
  • #5
mathman44 said:
For example if y(0) > 0 and [tex]y=\frac{1}{4}[2c_1+c_1^2+t^2][/tex], then is the solution unique for all t > 0 since the function y' is Lipschitz continuous for all t > 0?

Well, yes, sqrt(y) is not Lipschitz continuous at y=0. So Picard doesn't prove there is a unique solution with y(0)=0. And yes, if y(0)>0 then it does imply there is a unique solution as long as y stays greater than zero.
 

1. What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is an equation that relates a function to its derivatives. It describes how the rate of change of a variable is related to the value of the variable itself. Differential equations are commonly used in various fields of science and engineering to model and predict the behavior of systems.

2. What is an initial value problem (IVP)?

An initial value problem is a type of differential equation that involves finding a solution to a function given an initial value. The initial value is a known value of the function at a specific point, which is used to determine the unique solution to the differential equation.

3. What is the uniqueness theorem for IVPs?

The uniqueness theorem for IVPs states that if a differential equation satisfies certain conditions, then there exists a unique solution to the equation. This means that for a given initial value, there is only one possible solution to the differential equation.

4. What are the conditions for the existence and uniqueness of solutions to an IVP?

The conditions for the existence and uniqueness of solutions to an IVP are that the function in the differential equation must be continuous and the partial derivative of the function with respect to the dependent variable must also be continuous. Additionally, the initial value must be within the domain of the function.

5. How do you solve an IVP using the uniqueness theorem?

To solve an IVP using the uniqueness theorem, you first check that the conditions for existence and uniqueness are satisfied. Then, you can use the uniqueness theorem to prove that there is a unique solution to the IVP. Finally, you can use various methods such as separation of variables, substitution, or series solutions to find the specific solution to the IVP.

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