Green's Function Solution to ODE. Boundary Conditions Problem.

In summary, Green's Functions can be used to solve the differential equation \frac{d^{2}y}{dx^{2}} + y = cosec x, with boundary conditions y\left(0\right) = y\left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right) = 0. To do this, we can assume a form for G\left(x,z\right) and use the boundary conditions to determine the values of A, B, C, and D. For the first boundary case, x is valid over the interval \left[0<x<\frac{\pi}{2}\right] and z is valid over the same interval. For the second boundary case, it is equally possible to say A =
  • #1
LukeMiller86
5
0
Use Green's Functions to solve:

[tex]\frac{d^{2}y}{dx^{2}} + y = cosec x[/tex]

Subject to the boundary conditions:

[tex]y\left(0\right) = y\left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right) = 0[/tex]

Attempt:

[tex]\frac{d^{2}G\left(x,z\right)}{dx^{2}} + G\left(x,z\right) = \delta\left(x-z\right)[/tex]

For [tex]x\neq z [/tex] the RHS is zero so the complementary solution consists of sinx and cosx terms but with different superpositions on either side of x = z since the first derivative is required to have a discontinuity there.

Assume a form [tex] G\left(x,z\right) = A\left(z\right)sinx + B\left(z\right)cosx [/tex] for x < z

and [tex]G\left(x,z\right) = C\left(z\right)sinx + D\left(z\right)cosx [/tex] for x > z

I'm just following an example from a book that then continues to state that according to the boundary conditions B and C are equal to zero, seems simple but I'm unclear as to how they achieve this. I don't see how to apply this and discern B and C being zero, I seem to just find A,B,C and D all zero. Also how would one proceed in the case of the boundary conditions stating G and its first derivative equal to zero and achieve A and B zero?

Cheers
 
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  • #2
Okay, for the first one is it the case that x is valid over the interval [tex]\left[0<x<\frac{\pi}{2}\right][/tex], therefore z is valid over the same interval? That seems to solve my problem with the maths.

For the second boundary case would it be that it is equally possible to say A = B = 0 as it is to say C = D = 0.

Thanks.
 

What is a Green's Function?

A Green's function is a mathematical tool used in solving ordinary differential equations (ODEs) with boundary conditions. It represents the solution to a particular ODE with specific boundary conditions at a given point.

How is a Green's Function used in solving ODEs?

A Green's function is used to reduce a complex ODE with given boundary conditions to a simpler set of equations. It is then applied to a known set of boundary conditions to obtain the solution to the original ODE.

What are the benefits of using Green's Function in solving ODEs?

Green's function allows for the solution of complex ODEs with variable boundary conditions. It also provides a general solution that can be applied to different boundary conditions without having to solve the entire ODE again.

How do boundary conditions affect the use of Green's Function?

Boundary conditions play a crucial role in the use of Green's function. The function is dependent on the specific boundary conditions given, and the solution obtained will be valid only for those conditions.

Can Green's Function be used for all types of ODEs?

Green's function can be used for linear ODEs with constant coefficients and homogeneous boundary conditions. It may also be applied to some non-linear ODEs with specific boundary conditions. However, it is not a universal tool and may not work for all types of ODEs.

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