How to handle the Dirac delta function as a boundary condition

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the handling of the Dirac delta function as an initial condition in a perturbation theory context applied to a diffusion-like equation. Participants explore the implications of this approach and consider alternative methods for solving the problem analytically.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a problem involving a diffusion equation with a Dirac delta function as an initial condition and seeks guidance on handling this within perturbation theory.
  • Another participant argues that the presence of epsilon in the equations is inappropriate, suggesting that it complicates the analysis.
  • A different participant characterizes the problem as a 2D diffusion equation, emphasizing that it should describe the relaxation of initial non-uniformity in the variable P, and expresses skepticism about the applicability of perturbation theory.
  • One participant suggests analyzing a simpler 2D equation with constant coefficients to explore the exact solution and its potential for expansion in powers of epsilon.
  • Several participants inquire about the possibility of using numerical approaches, with one noting that the assignment requires an analytical solution and plans to consult a supervisor for further guidance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriateness of using perturbation theory and the role of epsilon in the equations. There is no consensus on the best approach to solve the problem, and multiple competing views remain regarding the handling of the Dirac delta function and the nature of the solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight potential limitations of the perturbation approach, including the neglect of derivative terms that may be crucial for spatial relaxation. The discussion reflects uncertainty about the initial conditions and the mathematical treatment of the Dirac delta function.

mathy_girl
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Using perturbation theory, I'm trying to solve the following problem

\frac{\partial P}{\partial \tau} = \frac{1}{2}\varepsilon^2 \alpha^2 \frac{\partial^2 P}{\partial f^2} + \rho \varepsilon^2 \nu \alpha^2 \frac{\partial^2 P}{\partial f \partial \alpha} + \frac{1}{2}\varepsilon^2 \nu^2 \alpha^2 \frac{\partial^2 P}{\partial \alpha^2}, \quad \mbox{for } \tau&gt;0,<br />
with initial condition P = \alpha^2~\delta(f-K), \quad \mbox{for } \tau=0.

Expanding P_\varepsilon=P_0 + \varepsilon^2 P_1 + \ldots the \mathcal{O}(1) equation is given by
\frac{\partial P_0}{\partial \tau} = 0, \quad \mbox{for } \tau&gt;0,
with boundary condition P_0 = \alpha^2~\delta(f-K) \mbox{ for } \tau=0.

Obviously, this gives P_0 = \alpha^2~\delta(f-K).

Now I would like to solve the \mathcal{O}(\varepsilon^2) problem
\frac{\partial P_1}{\partial \tau} = \frac{1}{2} \alpha^2 \frac{\partial^2 P_0}{\partial f^2} + \rho \nu \alpha^2 \frac{\partial^2 P_0}{\partial f \partial \alpha} + \frac{1}{2} \nu^2 \alpha^2 \frac{\partial^2 P_0}{\partial \alpha^2}, \quad \mbox{for } \tau&gt;0
with initial condition P_1 = 0 \mbox{ for } \tau=0.

Does anyone of you know how to handle the Dirac Delta function in the initial condition and O(1) solution here?
 
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There shouldn't be any epsilon in the equations.
 
It is kind of 2D diffusion (or heat conduction) equation with an initial condition, not boundary.

Physically the exact solution should describe the "relaxation" of initial non uniformity of P.

I am afraid it cannot be solved by the perturbation theory in powers of epsilon - you neglect the derivative terms that are responsible for the space relaxation.

Consider a simpler 2D equation - with constant coefficients and analyse the exact solution, if it is expandable (analytical in epsilon at epsilon=0).
 
AiRAVATA said:
There shouldn't be any epsilon in the equations.

Sorry, that's my mistake.. think it's a copy-paste error. I corrected it in the previous message.
 
Have you tried a numerical approach?
 
CFDFEAGURU said:
Have you tried a numerical approach?

That's always possible, but the assignment here is to do it analytically... Tomorrow I'll ask my supervisor if he thinks there's another way to solve this analytically.
 

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