Introductory PDE (diffusion equation)

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the diffusion equation represented by the partial differential equation (PDE) u_t = -u_{xx} with the initial condition u(x,0) = e^{-x^2}. The solution involves understanding the second partial derivative of u at t=0, which results in a Gaussian function. The participant seeks clarification on the graphical representation of the solution over time, specifically how the professor derived the graph for time t + delta t.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of partial differential equations (PDEs)
  • Familiarity with Gaussian functions and their properties
  • Knowledge of initial value problems in mathematical physics
  • Basic skills in analyzing graphical representations of mathematical solutions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of solutions for the diffusion equation using separation of variables
  • Learn about the properties and applications of Gaussian functions in PDEs
  • Explore numerical methods for solving initial value problems in PDEs
  • Investigate graphical techniques for visualizing solutions to diffusion equations
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those focusing on differential equations, as well as researchers interested in the applications of diffusion processes in various scientific fields.

compliant
Messages
43
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



u_t = -{{u_{x}}_{x}}
u(x,0) = e^{-x^2}

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


The initial state is a bell curve centred at x=0. The second partial derivative of u at t=0 is {4x^2}{e^{-x^2}}, which is a Gaussian function, which means nothing to me other than its bell-curved shape.

The solution is http://www.orcca.on.ca/~reid/Courses//AMath315/Fall2009/Solutions/Assign1-Fab.pdf" (the top graph), but I just want to know how on Earth he (my prof who wrote up said solutions) came up that graph for time t + delta t, and what on Earth he means by whatever it is he wrote down there.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
bump.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
0
Views
1K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K