Finding the solution to a DE with complex roots

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a second-order differential equation with complex roots, specifically the equation y'' + 6y' + 13y = 0. Participants are exploring the implications of the complex roots on the general solution and how it relates to the answer provided in a textbook.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the general solution using characteristic equations and Euler's formula, but expresses confusion regarding the presence of imaginary numbers in their result compared to the textbook answer.
  • Some participants question the specific form of the answer in the textbook and suggest that it may be a rearranged version of the original poster's equation.
  • There is a mention of potential trigonometric identities that might clarify the relationship between the derived solution and the textbook answer.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights and clarifications regarding the relationship between the derived solution and the textbook answer. There is an exploration of how constants can be renamed or absorbed into the solution, but no consensus has been reached on the exact nature of the discrepancy.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of differential equations and the interpretation of solutions involving complex numbers, with an emphasis on ensuring that the solutions align with standard forms typically found in textbooks.

Jamin2112
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I can't figure out how to get the answer in the back of the book.

y''+6y'+13y=0

So far, I have...

ert (r2 + 6r + 13) = 0
r2 + 6r + 13 = 0
r2 + 6r + ___ = -13 + ___
r2 + 6r + 9 = -13 + 9
(r+3)2 = -4
r = -3 +/- 2i

Then we have a crazy-looking thing after assuming y = C1e(r1)(t) + C2e(r2)(t)

y = e-3t (C1e(2t)i + C2e(-2t)i

And using Euler's formula and simplifying a little bit

y = e-3t ( C1 ( cos(2t) + i*sin(2t) ) + C2( cos(-2t) i*sin(-2t) ) )

The answer in the back of the book, however, is something that doesn't even involve imaginary numbers.

What am I missing?
 
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What was the answer in the back of the book that you are finding conflict with? Looks right to me assuming you meant the e^{-3t} to multiply the whole thing in yoru last line.
 
Pengwuino said:
What was the answer in the back of the book that you are finding conflict with? Looks right to me assuming you meant the e^{-3t} to multiply the whole thing in yoru last line.

y=C1e-3tcos(2t) + C2e-3tsin(2t)

There's probably some trig identity eluding me :confused:
 
I'm pretty sure the answer from the book is just a rearranged form of your equation
y = e-3t ( C1 ( cos(2t) + i*sin(2t) ) + C2( cos(2t) - i*sin(2t) ) )

Just multiply out everything, then you can factor the sine and cosine terms, so it's of the form e-3tcos(2t)+e-3tsin(2t). The rest is just renaming constants, the book solution just absorbed the i into their C2.
 

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