General Higher Order Linear Non-Homogeneous Diff Eq's

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the general solution of higher order linear non-homogeneous differential equations, specifically the formulation of the solution as y = y_h + y_p, where y_h represents the homogeneous solution and y_p denotes a particular solution. Participants clarify that while multiple homogeneous solutions can be included, only one particular solution is necessary to achieve a comprehensive general solution. The reasoning provided emphasizes that the homogeneous solutions can account for variations in the particular solution, thereby ensuring all possible solutions are encompassed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear differential equations
  • Familiarity with homogeneous and non-homogeneous equations
  • Knowledge of solution methods for differential equations
  • Basic grasp of mathematical notation and terminology
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of undetermined coefficients for finding particular solutions
  • Explore the variation of parameters technique for solving non-homogeneous equations
  • Investigate the role of initial conditions in determining unique solutions
  • Learn about the Laplace transform as a tool for solving differential equations
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Students and professionals in mathematics, engineering, and physics who are studying or working with differential equations, particularly those focusing on higher order linear non-homogeneous types.

SrVishi
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Hello, I am learning about the general solution to higher order linear non-homogeneous differential equations. I know that the general solution of such an equation is of the form ##y=y_h+y_p## where ##y_h## is the solution to the respective homogeneous equation and ##y_p## is a particular solution of the equation. I also realize that in the homogeneous solution, you want to include as many terms as possible, even giving a parameter of constants to each of these terms to include as many different solutions as possible. My question is, why do we only need one particular solution? If we are trying to make our general solution as "general" as possible, why do we not include a family of solutions that satisfy the non-homogeneous differential equation?
 
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The homogeneous solutions are differences of the particular solutions.
yh=yp2-yp1
if we have
one yp and all yh
we have all solutions
say we are worried we do not have yp2
yp2=yp1+(yp2-yp1)
but we have yp1 and (yp2-yp1) is homogeneous so we have it
so we had yp2 all along
 

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