Euler Method with h=0.05 for y'=3+t-y, y(0)=1 at t=0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around applying the Euler method to approximate solutions for the differential equation y' = 3 + t - y with the initial condition y(0) = 1. Participants are tasked with finding values at specific time points (t = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4) using a step size of h = 0.05.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants discuss the recursive nature of Euler's method and emphasize understanding the process rather than memorizing formulas. Questions arise regarding which values to use for the function f in the approximation, specifically whether to use current or future values of y and t.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the steps involved in the Euler method and clarifying the mathematical principles behind it. There is an ongoing dialogue about the initial conditions and the iterative process, with some expressing uncertainty about the foundational concepts of the method.

Contextual Notes

Some participants indicate a lack of resources or guidance in their textbooks or course materials regarding Euler's method, which may be impacting their understanding of the problem.

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Homework Statement


Use the Euler method with h=0.05 to find approximate values of y'=3+t-y, y(0)=1 at t=0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4.


Homework Equations


I don't even know what formula and how to use it.


The Attempt at a Solution


The answers are 1.1975, 1.38549, 1.56491, 1.73658.
 
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Euler's method is a recursive method. In general, it is best to understand what you're actually doing than to memorize the equations. In Euler's method, you essentially get an estimate of y' and use that to estimate y at future values.

At t=0, y=1 (given), and thus, y'(0)=3+0-1=2. In the next h seconds, you would expect y to increase by y' * h. Thus, we say y(x+h)=h*y'(x)+y(x). We get that y(0.05)=0.05*y'(0)+y(0)=1.1. our new value of y'(0.05)=3+0.05-y(0.05)=1.95. Keep iterating this method to get future values of y and y'.
 
Success said:

Homework Statement


Use the Euler method with h=0.05 to find approximate values of y'=3+t-y, y(0)=1 at t=0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4.


Homework Equations


I don't even know what formula and how to use it.


The Attempt at a Solution


The answers are 1.1975, 1.38549, 1.56491, 1.73658.

Are you saying that your textbook and/or course notes have nothing at all on Euler's method?
 
You are solving a differential equation of the form:
\frac{dy}{dt}=f(y,t)
To solve this equation numerically, you are approximating the derivative on the left hand side by:
\frac{dy}{dt}≈\frac{y(t+Δt)-y(t)}{Δt}
But, what values of y and t do you use to substitute into the function f, the values at time t, y(t) and t, or the values at time t+Δt, y(t+Δt), t+Δt? In Euler's method you use the former, so your algebraic approximation to the differential equation becomes:
\frac{y(t+Δt)-y(t)}{Δt}=f(y(t),t)
or, equivalently,
y_{n+1}-y_n=Δtf(y_n,nΔt)
where n signifies the n'th time step of your calculation. In the terminology that your problem statement uses, h = Δt
 

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