I.7 verify that the given function is a solution

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around verifying whether the function \( u = \phi(x,y,z) = (x^2 + y^2 + z^2)^{-1/2} \) satisfies the equation \( u_{xx} + u_{yy} + u_{zz} = 0 \). The context includes exploring the derivatives of the function and understanding the notation involved, specifically regarding second derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Participants are tasked with evaluating the derivatives of the function to determine if they combine to yield zero.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the notation \( U_{xx} \), presuming it refers to the second derivative of the function.
  • Another participant clarifies that the notation typically indicates the second partial derivative with respect to \( x \).
  • There is a repeated inquiry about what function to use in the evaluation process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need to evaluate the derivatives, but there is uncertainty regarding the notation and the specific steps to take in the verification process. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the verification itself.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of clarity on the notation used for derivatives, and participants are at different levels of understanding regarding the mathematical concepts involved.

karush
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$\textsf{i.7 verify that the given function is a solution} $
\begin{align*}\displaystyle
u_{xx}+u_{yy}+u_{zz}&=0\\
u=\phi(x,y,z)&=(x^2 + y^2 +z^2)^{-1/2}\\
(x,y,z)&\ne(0,0,0)
\end{align*}

ok there is no book answer:mad:
$\tiny{Elementary \, Differential \, Equations \, Boundary \, Value \, Problems \quad Boyce/Diprinaia \quad 1965}$
 
Last edited:
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karush said:
$\textsf{i.7 verify that the given function is a solution} $
\begin{align*}\displaystyle
u_{xx}+u_{yy}+u_{zz}&=0\\
u=\phi(x,y,z)&=(x^2 + y^2 +z^2)^{-1/2}\\
(x,y,z)&\ne(0,0,0)
\end{align*}

ok there is no book answer:mad:
$\tiny{Elementary \, Differential \, Equations \, Boundary \, Value \, Problems \quad Boyce/Diprinaia \quad 1965}$

So evaluate those derivatives and see if they combine in that way to give 0...
 
Prove It said:
So evaluate those derivatives and see if they combine in that way to give 0...

ok I am like page 5 in the book so I don't know exactly what $U_{xx}$ means I presume it means 2nd derivative of the function U
 
That notation usually means the second partial derivative w.r.t $x$.
 
so what would we use for a function?
 
karush said:
so what would we use for a function?

$$u=\phi(x,y,z)=\left(x^2 + y^2 +z^2\right)^{-\Large\frac{1}{2}}$$
 

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