Frobenius method solution for linear ODE

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the second-order linear ordinary differential equation (ODE) given by x²u'' - x(xu' - u) = 0. The correct general solution requires a logarithmic term, specifically y = C₁x∫e^x/x² dx + C₂x + x∫(e^x/x² ∫e⁻ˣ x f(x) dx) dx. The initial solution of y = x is confirmed as correct, while the subsequent solution provided by the user is identified as incorrect. The discussion references external resources for further clarification on solving similar inhomogeneous ODEs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of second-order linear ordinary differential equations
  • Familiarity with the Frobenius method for solving ODEs
  • Knowledge of integral calculus, particularly integration techniques involving exponential functions
  • Experience with mathematical software like MathType for visualizing solutions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Frobenius method in detail for solving linear ODEs
  • Learn about the method of undetermined coefficients for inhomogeneous ODEs
  • Explore integration techniques for exponential functions and their applications in ODEs
  • Review resources on variable coefficients in linear differential equations
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Mathematicians, engineering students, and anyone involved in solving ordinary differential equations, particularly those interested in advanced techniques like the Frobenius method and inhomogeneous solutions.

zokomoko
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I've been given the ODE:
x^2 u''-x (x u'-u)=0
Solve.

It's suppose to be an example in which a logarithmic term is required for the general solution.
I would be glad if someone could look at what I've done and see if my solution is correct / incorrect.

Thank you in advance for your time and effort :wink:



p.s: I've attached a zip file which contains a WMF type file of the problem, if anyone has mathtype it's easier to read than the attached GIF image.
 

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Your 1st solution of y = x is correct, but the other solution is wrong.

Please refer to the below question in http://www.voofie.com" .

http://www.voofie.com/content/86/how-to-solve-this-2nd-order-linear-differential-equation/"

The question solves an inhomogeneous version of your question using http://www.voofie.com/content/84/solving-linear-non-homogeneous-ordinary-differential-equation-with-variable-coefficients-with-operat/" .

If there is an inhomogeneous function of f(x), the solution should be:
[tex]\Rightarrow y=C_1x\int e^xx^{-2} dx+ C_2 x+x\int \left(e^xx^{-2} \int e^{-x} x f(x)dx\right) \, dx[/tex]

And you can see, the fundamental solution that you are missing is:
[tex]x\int e^xx^{-2} dx[/tex]
 
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