Is there a name for this sort of differential equation?

In summary, the conversation discusses a differential equation of the form f(z) + 2zf'(z) + f''(z) = 0 and its general solution involving the probit function. The speaker asks if this equation has a name and the expert provides the answer that it can be transformed into a Sturm-Louville differential equation.
  • #1
Gear300
1,213
9
Is there a name to this sort of differential equation?
$$
f(z) + 2zf'(z) + f''(z) = 0 ~.
$$
I ran into it somewhere and it does not look to be Hermite. I think it has the general solution
$$
f(z) = e^{-z^2} \big( c_1 + c_2 \Phi(\sqrt{3}z) \big)
\quad \textnormal{($\Phi(x)$ is probit function.)}
$$
You might have to correct me on the solution, but is there a name to it?
 
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  • #2
Gear300 said:
Is there a name to this sort of differential equation?
$$
f(z) + 2zf'(z) + f''(z) = 0 ~.
$$
I ran into it somewhere and it does not look to be Hermite. I think it has the general solution
$$
f(z) = e^{-z^2} \big( c_1 + c_2 \Phi(\sqrt{3}z) \big)
\quad \textnormal{($\Phi(x)$ is probit function.)}
$$
You might have to correct me on the solution, but is there a name to it?
This can be transformed into
##\dfrac{d}{dz} \left ( e^{z^2} \dfrac{df}{dz} \right ) + e^{z^2} f(z) = 0##

This is a Sturm-Louville differential equation.

-Dan
 
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  • #3
Ah. Thanks.
 
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Likes berkeman

1. What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is a mathematical equation that describes how a function changes over time. It involves derivatives, which represent the rate of change of the function.

2. What is the purpose of a differential equation?

The purpose of a differential equation is to model and predict the behavior of a system or process over time. It is used in various fields such as physics, engineering, economics, and biology.

3. Is there a specific name for this type of differential equation?

Yes, there are various types of differential equations such as ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations, and stochastic differential equations. Each type has its own set of rules and methods for solving them.

4. How do you solve a differential equation?

The method for solving a differential equation depends on its type and complexity. Some can be solved analytically using mathematical techniques, while others require numerical methods using computers.

5. Can differential equations be used in real-life applications?

Yes, differential equations have numerous real-life applications, such as predicting the spread of diseases, modeling population growth, and designing control systems for engineering processes.

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