What is the general solution for the given differential equation?

In summary, the conversation is about finding the general solution for a given differential equation. The solution involves finding the complementary function and particular integral, with the roots of the equation being -2 and -2. However, the roots are incorrect and should be -2 and -2, resulting in a repeated root of -2 in the general solution of the homogeneous equation.
  • #1
zak8000
74
0

Homework Statement



y''+4y'+4y= t+exp(-2t)

find the general solution for the differential equation

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



general solution is sum of complementary function and particular integral

frist finding complementary function

y''+4y'+4y=0

let y=Aexp(mt)

y'=mA=exp(mt)
y''=(m^2)A=exp(mt)

substitute back and get

((m^2)+4m+4)Aexp(mt)=0

m=-2,0

so complementary function:

y=Aexp(-2t)+B

now find particular integral

y''+4y'+4y=t+exp(-2t)

try

y=a+bexp(-2t)
y'=-2bexp(-2t)
y''=4bexp(-2t)

substitute back and get

4bexp(-2t)-8bexp(-2t)+4(a+bexp(-2t))=t+exp(-2t)
(4+4-8)bexp(-2t)+4a=t+exp(-2t) !
so a = t/4 but b will always go to zero i don't know where my mistake is
 
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  • #2
zak8000 said:

Homework Statement



y''+4y'+4y= t+exp(-2t)

find the general solution for the differential equation

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



general solution is sum of complementary function and particular integral

frist finding complementary function

y''+4y'+4y=0

let y=Aexp(mt)

y'=mA=exp(mt)
y''=(m^2)A=exp(mt)

substitute back and get

((m^2)+4m+4)Aexp(mt)=0

m=-2,0


Roots are -2, -2.
 
  • #3
sorry i do not understand you are you proposing (m^2)+4m+4=0 where m= -2,-2?
 
  • #4
zak8000 said:
sorry i do not understand you are you proposing (m^2)+4m+4=0 where m= -2,-2?

What I am saying is you have the roots wrong, hence the solution wrong.

m2+4m+4 = (m+2)2

which has a repeated root of -2. So what is the general solution of the homogeneous equation?
 

1. What is a general solution for a differential equation?

A general solution for a differential equation is an expression or formula that contains all possible solutions to the equation. It includes a constant of integration to account for the infinite number of potential solutions.

2. How do you find the general solution for a differential equation?

To find the general solution for a differential equation, you must first solve the equation by using various mathematical techniques such as separation of variables, substitution, or integration. Once you have found the solution, you can add a constant of integration to represent all possible solutions and create the general solution.

3. Can you check if a solution is a general solution for a differential equation?

Yes, you can check if a solution is a general solution for a differential equation by substituting it into the equation and verifying that it satisfies the equation for all possible values of the independent variable. If it does, then it is a general solution.

4. Is a general solution unique for a differential equation?

No, a general solution is not unique for a differential equation. It can have an infinite number of possible solutions, each with a different constant of integration. The general solution represents the entire family of solutions for the equation.

5. Why is it important to find the general solution for a differential equation?

It is important to find the general solution for a differential equation because it allows us to find all possible solutions to the equation. This is especially useful when dealing with real-world problems that may have multiple solutions. Additionally, the general solution can be used to find a particular solution that satisfies specific initial conditions.

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