Green's function for Helmholtz Equation

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the Green's function for the Helmholtz Equation as presented in Arfken & Weber problem 9.7.2. The Green's function is defined as G(r_1, r_2) = \frac{exp(ik|r_{1}-r_{2}|)}{4\pi |r_{1}-r_{2}|}, which satisfies the criteria of symmetricity and the homogeneous differential equation (\nabla^{2} + k^2)G = 0. The solution involves recognizing that the Green's function corresponds to an outgoing wave, aligning with the physical interpretation of the Helmholtz equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Helmholtz operator \nabla^{2}A + k^{2}A
  • Familiarity with Green's functions and their properties
  • Knowledge of Hankel functions of the first and second kind
  • Basic concepts of wave propagation and time dependence in physical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and properties of Green's functions in differential equations
  • Learn about the application of Hankel functions in solving wave equations
  • Explore the physical implications of outgoing waves in the context of the Helmholtz equation
  • Review the relevant sections in Arfken & Weber for deeper insights into the criteria for Green's functions
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in applied mathematics, physics, and engineering, particularly those focusing on wave phenomena and differential equations.

Demon117
Messages
162
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement


Arfken & Weber 9.7.2 - Show that

\frac{exp(ik|r_{1}-r_{2}|)}{4\pi |r_{1}-r_{2}|}

satisfies the two appropriate criteria and therefore is a Green's function for the Helmholtz Equation.


Homework Equations


The Helmholtz operator is given by

\nabla ^{2}A+k^{2}A

Symmetricity of Green's functions.


The Attempt at a Solution


Right off the bat I am not sure what is mean't by "the two appropriate criteria" phrase. What exactly are the two appropriate criteria that they ask for in Arfken & Weber problem 9.7.2? Where can I find this criteria so that I know how to answer this question?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
matumich26 said:

Homework Statement


Arfken & Weber 9.7.2 - Show that

\frac{exp(ik|r_{1}-r_{2}|)}{4\pi |r_{1}-r_{2}|}

satisfies the two appropriate criteria and therefore is a Green's function for the Helmholtz Equation.


Homework Equations


The Helmholtz operator is given by

\nabla ^{2}A+k^{2}A

Symmetricity of Green's functions.


The Attempt at a Solution


Right off the bat I am not sure what is mean't by "the two appropriate criteria" phrase. What exactly are the two appropriate criteria that they ask for in Arfken & Weber problem 9.7.2? Where can I find this criteria so that I know how to answer this question?

I answered my own question. I read the material 6 hours ago, looked at the assignment and did it but kept coming up with the solution that (\nabla ^{2}+k^2)G=0, but I kept claiming that was incorrect. Well, looking back for the 100th time I realized this has to be true based on page 598 of Arfken & Weber, not only because it says so but also because the Helmholtz equation indicates a Green's function corresponding to an outgoing wave, which means that G(r1,r2) must satisfy a homogenous differential equation. Wow, that was a lot but I think it makes sense.
 
afkern and weber problem 9.7.3

Hey I am still struggling with the solution of the problem and trying to figure out your explanation. Can you explain it more elaborately.
 
The solutions are given by hankel functions of first kind and second kind.A time dependence of exp(-iwt) is assumed.In physical cases only outgoing wave is present so only one is chosen and not the other.
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
6K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K