Is It Runge-Kutta or Runge-Kutter?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the terminology associated with the Runge-Kutta methods for solving ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and the potential confusion arising from variations in spelling, such as "Runge-Kutter." Participants explore whether these variations are common typos or if they indicate different methods.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether "Runge-Kutter" is a common typo or represents a separate method, noting the lack of explicit references to the latter.
  • Several participants assert that the variations in spelling, including "Runga Kutta" and "Runge Cutter," are indeed typos, with one expressing frustration at perceived incompetence among engineers.
  • Another participant introduces a humorous anecdote about regional pronunciation differences, suggesting that such variations may be influenced by local dialects.
  • Further anecdotes are shared regarding mispronunciations by professors, illustrating how terminology can lead to confusion in academic settings.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the variations in spelling are typos, but there is no consensus on whether "Runge-Kutter" could imply a distinct method. The discussion includes differing views on the implications of these variations and the humorous aspects of mispronunciations.

Contextual Notes

Some statements reflect personal experiences and regional dialects, which may not be universally applicable. The discussion does not resolve the question of whether "Runge-Kutter" refers to a separate method.

Choppy
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I'm familiar with the Runge-Kutta methods for solving ODEs, but recently I've come across a reference to "Runge-Kutter", in which it appears to be used synonamously (unfortunately it's just a reference, the method is not stated explicitly). Is this a common typo, or is there a separate Runge Kutter method?

Thanks for any help.
 
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Typo. You can also find references on Runga Kutta methods, Runga Kutter methods, Runge Cutter methods. Engineers can be idiots.
 
D H said:
Typo. You can also find references on Runga Kutta methods, Runga Kutter methods, Runge Cutter methods. Engineers can be idiots.

Only to be surpassed by Homework Helpers who can't keep foot from mouth.
 
Depends on whether you are from Boston! I had a professor for Calculus I who always referred to "delter" and "epserlon".
 
HallsofIvy said:
Depends on whether you are from Boston! I had a professor for Calculus I who always referred to "delter" and "epserlon".

My favories are "os-kil-a-tion" (for oscillation) from a calc prof and and "hoe sh*t" (whole sheet) from a Chinese physics prof. I lost a week or two figuring that one out.
 
Phrak said:
My favories are "os-kil-a-tion" (for oscillation) from a calc prof and and "hoe sh*t" (whole sheet) from a Chinese physics prof. I lost a week or two figuring that one out.

Are you sure the first prof wasn't saying "os-kul-a-tion"? That means a kiss, as in when one curve intersects another at just a single point.
 

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