Differential equation y''-a(y'^2)-b(siny-a*cosy)=0

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a differential equation of the form y'' - a(y'^2) - b(siny - a*cosy) = 0, where a and b are constants. Participants are exploring the classification and potential methods for solving this ordinary differential equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the classification of the differential equation and the methods applicable for solving it. There is a focus on the transformation of variables, particularly using v = y' and the implications of this substitution. Questions arise regarding the correct interpretation of the variables involved and the validity of the methods proposed.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the methods of quadrature and the challenges associated with integrating the resulting equations. Some participants express uncertainty about the variable dependencies and the implications of the transformations used.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the original poster's credentials as a university professor, which raises questions about the nature of the problem being presented. The discussion also reflects a mix of confidence and humor regarding the challenges faced in solving the equation.

mst_ab
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solve this differential equation:

y''-a(y'^2)-b(siny-a*cosy)=0

(a&b are cte.)
 
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I'm assuming that "cte." means constants?

The first step is to classify the differential equation: Is it ordinary? Is it linear? Is it homogeneous?

Once you classify it, think of which methods you know that can be used to solve this type of DE. Which methods come to mind in this case?
 
a&b are constant,
i found the way of solving this !:

v=y'
=> y''=v(dv/dy)

after solving, i get this equation:

y'^2=(-0.82b*cosy-0.9b*siny)/1.36

(a=0.3)

I'm not noob! I'm professor of university!

please help me to solve this!:
y'^2=(-0.82b*cosy-0.9b*siny)/1.36
 
Umm...if y is function of x, then y''=v(dv/dx) not vdv/dy...What variable(s) is y actually a function of here?
 
gabbagabbahey said:
Umm...if y is function of x, then y''=v(dv/dx) not vdv/dy...What variable(s) is y actually a function of here?

No, gabbagabbahey, that is a perfectly valid method. If v= dy/dx, then
\frac{d^2y}{dx^2}= \frac{dv}{dx}
NOT "v(dv/dx)" and, by the chain rule,
= \frac{dy}{dx}\frac{dv/dy}= v\frac{dv}{dy}

That's a method called "quadrature" and is often used where the independent variable does not appear explicitely in the equation.

Unfortunately, once you have solved for v as a function of y, the integral for y as a function of x tends to be wicked! Often leading to an "elliptic integral" which I suspect is the case here.
 
Oops, yes, I think I need some coffee :redface:
 
By the way, here's an interesting application of "quadrature". Suppose you have a particle moving, on the real number line, under the influence of a force that depends only on position x and not t.

The equation of motion, "force= mass times acceleration", is
m \frac{d^2 x}{dt^2}= f(x)
where f(x) is the force function. Since t does not appear explicitely (the equation is "autonomous") we can let v= dx/dt and, as before, the equation becomes
mv\frac{dv}{dt}= f(x)
a separable equation. Write it as mv dv= f(x)dx and integrate both sides:
\frac{1}{2}mv^2= \int f(x)dx+ C
or
\frac{1}{2}mv^2- \int f(x)dx= C

Do you see that that is "conservation of energy"? (1/2)mv^2 is the kinetic energy and -\int f(x)dx is the potential energy.
 
?
y'=v=>(dy/dx)=v *
y''=dv/dx=(dv/dx)(dy/dx)=v(dv/dy) =_*_=> y"=v(dv/dy)
 
  • #10
gabbagabbahey said:
Oops, yes, I think I need some coffee :redface:

Hey, he said he was a University Professor and Universtiy Professors NEVER make mistakes!
 
  • #11
HallsofIvy said:
Hey, he said he was a University Professor and Universtiy Professors NEVER make mistakes!

Of course not, but apparently they do get "homework" :wink: :rolleyes:
 

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