Finding Solutions to Second Order Differential Equations with Initial Conditions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a second order differential equation with initial conditions, specifically the equation y'' - 8y' + 16 = 0, along with the conditions y(0) = 4 and y'(0) = 9. Participants are exploring the implications of repeated roots in the characteristic equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the general solution for the differential equation but encounters a contradiction when substituting the initial conditions. Some participants question the validity of the solution form used due to the presence of repeated roots.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the correct form of the solution given the repeated roots of the characteristic equation. Guidance has been offered regarding the appropriate solution structure for cases with repeated roots, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing examination of the implications of the initial conditions and the nature of the roots in the characteristic equation, which may affect the overall solution. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the existence of a solution based on their calculations.

cemar.
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y'' - 8y' + 16 = 0 ; y(0) = 4 ; y'(0) = 9


this should be not too bad but I am stuck in the same place.
m^2 - 8m + 16
m1 = m2 = 4

y = C1e^(mx) + C2(e^(mx))
sub in y(0) = 4
4 = C1 + C2
C1 = 4-C2

y' = mC1e^(mx) + mC2e^(mx)
sub in y'(0) = 9
9 = mC1 + mC2
C1 = 4 - C2 (from above), m=4
9 = 4(4-C2) + 4C2
9 = 16 - 4C2 + 4C2
9 = 16
In this case would there just be no solution or am i missing something?!?
Thank you!
 
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If I recall correctly, the general solution in the case of a repeated root for a second order constant coefficients ODE is
[tex]c_1e^{m_1x} + c_2xe^{m_1x}[/tex]
 
Hey
The formula you are using for y is only valid if you have to different solutions m, i.e.
[tex]m_{1}\neq{m_{2}}[/tex]

In your case y is given by

[tex]y=(C_{1}+C_{2}x)e^{mx}[/tex]
 
thanks!
 
Well done, guys.
 

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