Fundamental matrix vs Wronskian

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the Wronskian in the context of first-order and second-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The Wronskian for a second-order ODE is represented as |y1 y2; y1' y2'|, while for a first-order system of ODEs, it is denoted as W(two solutions). The conversation clarifies that a first-order system consists of two first-order differential equations, and the Wronskian can be computed as |y1 y2; y1' y2'| = y1y2' - y1'y2. Additionally, the Wronskian for a second-order ODE can be derived from its corresponding first-order system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of first-order and second-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs)
  • Familiarity with the concept of the Wronskian in differential equations
  • Knowledge of matrix determinants
  • Ability to convert second-order ODEs into first-order systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the Wronskian in detail
  • Learn how to convert second-order ODEs into first-order systems
  • Explore applications of the Wronskian in determining the linear independence of solutions
  • Investigate specific examples of first-order systems and their Wronskian calculations
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Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying differential equations, as well as educators looking to clarify the concepts of Wronskian and ODEs.

summerha
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I have just learned the first order system of ODE,

i found that the Wronskian in second order ODE is |y1 y2 ; y1' y2'|

but in first order system of ODE is the Wronskian is W(two solution),

i wonder which ones is the general form?

thank you very much
 
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I'm not clear what you mean by "second order ODE" and "first order system".
I would interpret "first order system" to mean two first order differential equations such as y1'= ay1+ by2, y2'= cy1+ dy2. The "Wronkskian" of that is \left|\begin{array}9 y1 & y2 \\ y1' & y2'\end{array}\right|= y1y2'- y1'y2.

By 'second order ODE" I would understand a single second order equation: y''+ by'+ cy= 0. That can be converted to a system of first order equations by defining y1= y, y2= y'. Then y1'= y2 and y''= y2'= -by2+ cy1. The solutions to that system are the same as the solutions to the original second order equation so the Wronskian for that system can be considered to be the Wronskian for the original equation though I think that would be an unusual use of the word!
 
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yes , this is what i want to ask, i am sorry for my unclear expression.

about the Wronkskian of two first order differential equations such as y1'= ay1+ by2, y2'= cy1+ dy2

the Wronkskian is not det(solution1 solution2)? (two set of solution column vector)
 

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