Just couldnt figure this out = (2)

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The discussion revolves around the confusion regarding the nth derivative of the equation xf'' + f' + xf = 0 and its implications. Participants clarify that since the original expression is zero, its nth derivative should also be zero. However, there is a debate about the solution provided, which suggests a different form involving (x^2 - 1)f(x), leading to questions about its validity. The mention of "r" refers to the radius of convergence, which is relevant for the context of the problem. Overall, there is uncertainty about the accuracy of the solution sheet and whether it pertains to the correct problem.
toni
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I just don't understand why it goes like this...why 'therefore'?

i know (x^2)f''(x)+xf'(x)+((x^2)-1)f(x)) = x(xf''(x)+f'(x)+xf(x)) - f(x), but why it goes to zero when taking (d^n/dx^n)?
 

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"It is given that xf"+ f'+ xf= 0"

and then it concluded
\frac{d^n}{dx^n}(x^2f"+ xf '+ (x^2-1)f)= 0
for any positive integer n and for x in (-r, r).

There is clearly something missing. Where did that "r" come from? Was there something more before this?
 
Sorry, i shouldve made things clearer.
Here is everything before this. r is the radius of convergence.
 

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Hmmm..it's actually on a solution sheet. I stuck at that point when i tried to go through it again before midterm...

the question is here, just in case. Thank you soooo much!
 

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can anyone tell me...

If xf"+f'+xf = 0

Is d^n/dx^n (xf"+f'+xf) = 0 ??

cos the solution says d^n/dx^n [x(xf"+f'+f)-f] = 0...that puzzles me. --'
 
toni said:
can anyone tell me...

If xf"+f'+xf = 0

Is d^n/dx^n (xf"+f'+xf) = 0 ??

Yes, since

\frac{d^n}{dx^n} (xf''+f'+xf)=\frac{d^n}{dx^n}(0)=0

; that is, since the quantity your taking the nth derivative of is by supposition always zero...

cos the solution says d^n/dx^n [x(xf"+f'+f)-f] = 0...that puzzles me. --'

That puzzles me too!...

\frac{d^n}{dx^n} [x(xf''+f'+xf)-f]=\frac{d^n}{dx^n}[(0)-f]=\frac{-d^nf}{dx^n} \neq 0

... perhaps that line in your solutions manual was a typo, and it was supposed to be anx^2f(x) instead of an (x^2-1)f(x)...are you sure you are looking at the solution to the given problem and nota different problem by accident?
 
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