Exploring Hermite's Equation: Solutions, Polynomials & Coefficients

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In summary: You'll get two different solutions, y_1(x) and y_2(x). Then, show that these two solutions form a fundamental set of solutions by showing that their Wronskian is non-zero. In summary, the equation y'' - 2xy' + ny = 0, where n is a constant, is known as Hermite's equation. By finding the first four terms in two solutions about x=0, it can be shown that they form a fundamental set of solutions. For nonnegative even integers, the series solutions terminate and become polynomials, with polynomial solutions for n=0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10. These polynomials are determined up to a
  • #1
nintandao64
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The equation y'' - 2xy' + ny = 0
where n is a constant, is known as Hermite's equation
a) Find the first four terms in each of two solutions about x=0 and show that htey form a fundamental set of solutions
b) Observe that if n is a nonnegative even integer, then one or the other of the series solutions terminates and becomes a polynomial. Find the polynomial solutoins for n=0, 2 ,4, 6, 8 and 10. Note that each polynomial is determined only up to a multiplicative constant
c) The Hermite polynomial Hn(x) is defined as the polynomial solution of the Hermite equation with n=2n for which the coefficient of x^n is 2^n. Find H0(x),...,H5(x).

Help!
 
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  • #2
nintandao64 said:
The equation y'' - 2xy' + ny = 0
where n is a constant, is known as Hermite's equation
a) Find the first four terms in each of two solutions about x=0 and show that htey form a fundamental set of solutions
b) Observe that if n is a nonnegative even integer, then one or the other of the series solutions terminates and becomes a polynomial. Find the polynomial solutoins for n=0, 2 ,4, 6, 8 and 10. Note that each polynomial is determined only up to a multiplicative constant
c) The Hermite polynomial Hn(x) is defined as the polynomial solution of the Hermite equation with n=2n for which the coefficient of x^n is 2^n. Find H0(x),...,H5(x).

Help!
You need to show some work before getting help here. The problem wants you to find a series solution to the differential equation, so start with

[tex]y=a_0+a_1 x+a_2 x^2+a_3 x^3 + \cdots[/tex]

plug it into the differential equation, and solve for the an's.
 

FAQ: Exploring Hermite's Equation: Solutions, Polynomials & Coefficients

1. What is Hermite's equation?

Hermite's equation is a differential equation that describes the behavior of certain physical systems, particularly those involving harmonic oscillation. It is named after French mathematician Charles Hermite.

2. What are some real-life applications of Hermite's equation?

Hermite's equation is used in quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and thermodynamics to describe the behavior of particles in a potential well. It is also used in engineering and physics to model mechanical systems such as springs and pendulums.

3. What are the solutions to Hermite's equation?

The solutions to Hermite's equation are known as Hermite polynomials. These are a special type of orthogonal polynomial that have numerous applications in mathematics, physics, and engineering.

4. How are Hermite polynomials and coefficients related?

The coefficients in Hermite's equation determine the specific Hermite polynomial that is a solution to the equation. The coefficients can be calculated using a recurrence relation or through the use of generating functions.

5. What is the significance of Hermite polynomials?

Hermite polynomials have many important properties and applications. They are used in probability theory, statistics, and mathematical physics. They also have connections to other mathematical concepts such as combinatorics and number theory.

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