I.7 verify that the given function is a solution

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on verifying that the function \( u = \phi(x,y,z) = (x^2 + y^2 + z^2)^{-1/2} \) is a solution to the equation \( u_{xx} + u_{yy} + u_{zz} = 0 \). Participants emphasize the need to compute the second partial derivatives \( u_{xx} \), \( u_{yy} \), and \( u_{zz} \) to confirm that their sum equals zero. The context is rooted in the study of differential equations as outlined in the textbook "Elementary Differential Equations and Boundary Value Problems" by Boyce and DiPrima, published in 1965.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of partial derivatives and notation, specifically \( u_{xx} \), \( u_{yy} \), and \( u_{zz} \).
  • Familiarity with the concept of solutions to partial differential equations.
  • Basic knowledge of the function \( \phi(x,y,z) = (x^2 + y^2 + z^2)^{-1/2} \).
  • Experience with the principles outlined in "Elementary Differential Equations and Boundary Value Problems" by Boyce and DiPrima.
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to compute second partial derivatives for multivariable functions.
  • Study the method of verifying solutions to partial differential equations.
  • Explore the implications of the Laplace equation in three dimensions.
  • Review the concepts of boundary value problems in the context of differential equations.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying differential equations, as well as professionals involved in mathematical modeling and analysis of physical systems.

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:
$\tiny{Elementary \, Differential \, Equations \, Boundary \, Value \, Problems \quad Boyce/Diprinaia \quad 1965}$
 
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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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