SUMMARY
The general solution for the differential equation y'' + 4y' + 4y = 5xe^(-2x) is derived using the method of undetermined coefficients. The homogeneous solution is y_h = c1e^(-2x) + c2xe^(-2x), with roots from the characteristic equation (D+2)². The particular solution is confirmed to be yp = (5/6)x^3e^(-2x), correcting the initial miscalculation of (5/2)x^3e^(-2x). The final general solution combines both homogeneous and particular solutions.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of second-order linear differential equations
- Familiarity with the method of undetermined coefficients
- Knowledge of characteristic equations and their roots
- Experience with exponential functions in differential equations
NEXT STEPS
- Study the method of undetermined coefficients in detail
- Learn how to solve characteristic equations for higher-order linear differential equations
- Explore variations of the exponential function in differential equations
- Practice solving differential equations with non-homogeneous terms
USEFUL FOR
Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying differential equations, as well as educators looking for examples of solving second-order linear differential equations.