Heat Conduction Initial Problem Set Up

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on setting up mathematical formulations for various heat conduction scenarios, including a slab, a semi-infinite region, a solid cylinder, and a solid sphere. The governing equations for each scenario are derived using the heat equation, with specific initial and boundary conditions outlined. The user seeks clarification on the need for an additional boundary condition for the semi-infinite region and expresses uncertainty regarding the simplicity of the solutions for the cylinder and sphere. The mathematical representations are confirmed to be accurate for the described physical systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the heat equation and its applications in heat conduction.
  • Familiarity with initial and boundary conditions in partial differential equations.
  • Knowledge of mathematical concepts such as convection and heat generation rates.
  • Basic principles of thermal conductivity and insulation in physical systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of boundary conditions in heat conduction problems.
  • Explore the method of separation of variables for solving the heat equation.
  • Learn about the physical significance of thermal insulation and convection in heat transfer.
  • Investigate advanced topics in heat conduction, such as transient heat conduction in semi-infinite bodies.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in engineering, physics, and applied mathematics who are involved in heat transfer analysis and the mathematical modeling of thermal systems.

timman_24
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Homework Statement



I need to set up the mathematical formulation of the following heat conduction scenarios:

a) A slab in 0\le x \le L is initially at a temperature f(x). For times t>0 the boundary at x=o is kept insulated and the boundary at x=L dissipates heat by convection into the medium at zero temperature.

b)A semi-infinite region 0\le x \le \infty is initially at temperature f(x). For times t>0, heat is generated in the medium at a constant rate of g (constant), while the boundary at x=0 is kept at zero temperature.

c) A solid cylinder 0\le r \le b is initially at a temperature f(r). For times t>0 heat is generated in the medium at a rate of g(r), while the boundary at r=b dissipates heat by convection into a medium at zero temperature.

d) A solid sphere 0\le r \le b is initially at temperature f(r). For times t>0, heat is generated in the medium at a rate of g(r), while the boundary at r=b is kept at a uniform temperature T'.

2. The attempt at a solution

Problem a)
Solution:
\frac{1}{\alpha}\frac{\partial T}{\partial t}=\frac{\partial ^2 T}{\partial x^2 }

IC: T(x,0)=f(x)

BC:
1.) Insulated Boundary:q\prime(0,t)=0

2.) Convection Boundary:k\frac{\partial T}{\partial x}|_L =-hT(L,t)

Problem b)
Solution: \frac{1}{\alpha}\frac{\partial T}{\partial t}=\frac{\partial ^2 T}{\partial x^2 }+\frac{1}{k}g

IC: T(x,0)=f(x)

BC:
1.) T(0,t)=0

2.) Is there another boundary for the x=\infty?

Problem c)
Solution: \frac{1}{\alpha}\frac{\partial T}{\partial t}=\frac{\partial ^2 T}{\partial r^2 }+\frac{1}{k}g(r)

IC: T(r,0)=f(r)

BC:
k\frac{\partial T}{\partial r}=-hT

Problem d)
Solution: \frac{1}{\alpha}\frac{\partial T}{\partial t}=\frac{\partial ^2 T}{\partial r^2 }+\frac{1}{k}g(r)

IC: T(r,o)=f(r)

BC: T(b,t)=T'

3. Discussion

I do not know if I need another boundary condition on question b for the infinite side, I don't know what to do there. Also, c and d should be rather easy to express due to symmetry, but it almost seems too easy. Is there anything I am missing in my mathematical representations of the physical systems described? Any guidance would be very appreciated.
 
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