Is there a theory for infinite dimensional PDEs?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the existence of a theory for infinite dimensional partial differential equations (PDEs), particularly in the context of quantum mechanics and fields with infinitely many variables. The scope includes theoretical exploration and mathematical reasoning related to these equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about established theories concerning infinite dimensional PDEs.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on whether the inquiry pertains to functions with infinitely many variables or infinite dimensional functions of a finite number of variables.
  • A participant provides an example involving the quantum mechanical real Klein-Gordon field, suggesting it can be described by an infinite dimensional non-homogeneous heat equation, specifically referencing the Schrödinger equation.
  • The same participant proposes a separation attempt for the solution of the equation, introducing a product form involving functions of time and a variable related to an uncountable set of variables.
  • There is a mention of the term "functional differential equations," though the participant expresses uncertainty about its applicability and finds initial research confusing.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the terminology or the nature of the equations discussed, indicating that multiple competing views remain regarding the classification and understanding of infinite dimensional PDEs.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes vague examples and mentions of uncountable sets of variables, which may introduce limitations in rigor and clarity. The term "functional differential equations" is noted but not fully resolved in its relevance.

jostpuur
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Is there any established theory concerning infinite dimensional PDE?
 
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Do you mean that the function has infinitely many variables, or that it is an infinite dimensional function of a finite number of variables?
 
Infinitely many variables.

For example a quantum mechanical real Klein-Gordon field, if I have understood correctly, can be pretty much described by the infinite dimensional non-homogenous heat equation (the Shrodinger's equation, with certain constants and with the harmonic potential). Something like this

<br /> i\partial_t \Psi(t,\phi) = \sum_{k\in\mathbb{R}^3} \Big(-\alpha \partial^2_{k} + \beta |k|^2\Big)\Psi(t, \phi)<br />

where

<br /> \Psi:\mathbb{R}\times\mathbb{R}^{\mathbb{R}^3}\to\mathbb{C}.<br />

It can be solved by a separation attempt

<br /> \Psi(t,\phi) = \prod_{k\in\mathbb{R}^3} \Phi_k(t) \Psi_k (\phi(k)),<br />

where

<br /> \Phi_k,\;\Psi_k:\mathbb{R}\to\mathbb{C}<br />

This is total honest pseudo mathematics, motivated by physics, don't complain about it! :biggrin:

In fact his is a very vague example with uncountable set of variables. There could be more rigor examples with only countably many variables.
 
Last edited:
It could be these are supposed to be called functional differential equations, but I'm not sure. Some quick google hits were slightly confusing.
 

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