General solution of differential equation system

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the general solution of a system of differential equations with initial conditions. The equations and attempts at solving them are also mentioned. However, the final solution of x(t) and y(t) being 0 is determined to be incorrect and the use of C and D in the general solution is suggested to avoid confusion with the initial conditions.
  • #1
mansfin
4
0

Homework Statement



Find the general solution of the system of differential equations
[tex]x'=10x - 12y[/tex]
[tex]y'=25x - 30y[/tex]
(where primes indicate derivatives with respect to t) by using the initial conditions
[tex]x(0)=A[/tex]
[tex]y(0)=B[/tex]

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]x''=10x' - 12y'[/tex]
[tex]y'=25x-30y[/tex]
[tex]x''=10x'-12(25x-30y)[/tex]
[tex]y=\frac{10x-x'}{12}[/tex]
[tex]x''=10x'-300x+360(\frac{10x-x'}{12})[/tex]
[tex]x''=10x'-300x+300x-30x'[/tex]
[tex]x''+20x'=0[/tex]
[tex]r^2+20r=0[/tex]
[tex]r(r+20)=0[/tex]
[tex]r=0,-20[/tex]
[tex]x(t)=Ae^{-20t} +B[/tex] [tex]\rightarrow[/tex] [tex]x(0)=A[/tex]
[tex]A=A+B[/tex]
[tex]B=0[/tex]
[tex]y=\frac{10x-x'}{12}=\frac{5}{2}Ae^{-20t} \rightarrow [tex]y(0)=B[/tex]
[tex]0=\frac{5}{2}A[/tex]
[tex]A=0[/tex]

If A=0 and B=0, then my general solutions x(t),y(t)=0. This is clearly not right. What am I doing wrong? Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Use C and D in your general solution so they don't get mixed up with the A and B in the initial conditions.
 

1. What is a general solution of a differential equation system?

A general solution of a differential equation system is a formula or set of formulas that can be used to find all possible solutions to the system. It represents the most basic form of solution, without any specific conditions or initial values.

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

To find the general solution, you must first solve the system of differential equations using algebraic and calculus techniques. This may involve finding the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the system, or using methods such as substitution or separation of variables. Once the equations have been solved, the resulting formulas can be combined to form the general solution.

3. Can the general solution of a differential equation system be used to find specific solutions?

Yes, the general solution can be used to find specific solutions by plugging in the given initial conditions or boundary values. This will result in a unique set of equations that satisfy both the system and the given conditions.

4. Are there any limitations to using the general solution of a differential equation system?

Yes, the general solution may not always be applicable to all situations. It is based on the assumption that the system is linear and that the coefficients and boundary conditions are constant. In some cases, the system may be non-linear or have time-varying coefficients, which would require different methods for finding solutions.

5. Why is the general solution of a differential equation system important?

The general solution provides a framework for understanding the behavior of a system of differential equations. It allows for the prediction of future outcomes and can be used to model real-world phenomena in fields such as physics, engineering, and economics. Additionally, it serves as a starting point for finding specific solutions that satisfy given conditions.

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