Initial and boundary value problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the initial and boundary value problem defined by the equation \(u_t(x,t)-u_{xx}(x,t)=0\) with boundary condition \(u_x(0,t)=0\) and initial condition \(u(x,0)=x^2\). The separation of variables method is employed, leading to the equations for \(X(x)\) and \(T(t)\). The solution for \(X(x)\) is derived as \(X(x)=D \cos{(\beta x)}\) after applying the boundary condition, with \(\lambda\) expressed as \(\beta^2\). The participants discuss the necessity of expressing \(\beta\) in terms of \(n\), indicating a potential next step in the solution process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of partial differential equations (PDEs)
  • Familiarity with the method of separation of variables
  • Knowledge of boundary value problems
  • Basic concepts of eigenvalues and eigenfunctions
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the method of separation of variables in detail
  • Research boundary value problems in the context of PDEs
  • Learn about eigenvalue problems and their applications in PDEs
  • Investigate the implications of expressing \(\beta\) in terms of \(n\) in solutions
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, physics students, and engineers working with partial differential equations, particularly those focusing on initial and boundary value problems.

evinda
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Hello! (Wave)

I want to find the solution of the following initial and boundary value problem:

$$u_t(x,t)-u_{xx}(x,t)=0, x>0, t>0 \\ u_x(0,t)=0, t>0, \\ u(x,0)=x^2, x>0.$$I have done the following so far:

$$u(x,t)=X(x) T(t)$$

$$u_t(x,t)=u_{xx}(x,t) \Rightarrow \frac{T'(t)}{T(t)}=\frac{X''(x)}{X(x)}=-\lambda$$

$$u_x(0,t)=0 \Rightarrow X'(0)=0$$

Then we have the following two problems:$$\left\{\begin{matrix}
X''(x)+\lambda X(x)=0\\
X'(0)=0
\end{matrix}\right.$$

and

$$\left\{\begin{matrix}
T'(t)+\lambda T(t)=0
\end{matrix}\right.$$We have that $\lambda=\beta^2$ for some $\beta>0$.

So $X''(x)+\beta^2 X(x)=0 \Rightarrow X(x)=C \sin{(\beta x)}+D \cos{(\beta x)}$.

$X'(0)=0 \Rightarrow C=0$.

So $X(x)=D \cos{(\beta x)}$.

But don't we have to write $\beta$ in respect to $n$ ? (Thinking)

How could we do so? Or have I done something wrong?
 
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evinda said:
But don't we have to write $\beta$ in respect to $n$ ?

How could we do so? Or have I done something wrong?

Hey evinda!

What is $n$?
Doesn't the solution for X hold for any $\beta$?
Perhaps we should just continue? (Wondering)
 

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