Matlab code problem with differential equations

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on solving the differential equation d^2y/dx^2 - 4y = (e^x)/x using numerical methods in MATLAB. The user encounters an error in their code, specifically in the line calculating the values of m(ii). Suggestions include adding print statements to trace the values of l(ii) and m(ii) for debugging and correcting the mathematical expression to ensure proper parentheses usage. It is noted that the code appears to implement the Euler Method for solving ordinary differential equations. Attention to detail in the indexing of x and the expression itself is crucial for resolving the issue.
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Homework Statement


For a following differential equation
d^2y/dx^2-4y=(e^x)/x
 Find the solution using numerical methods

Homework Equations


d^2y/dx^2-4y=(e^x)/x

The Attempt at a Solution


Matlab:
%num
dx=0.01;
x=1:dx:3;
l=zeros(1,length(x));
m=zeros(1,length(x));
l(1)=1;
m(1)=0.25;
for ii=2:length(x)
    l(ii) = l(ii-1)+m(ii-1)*dx;
    m(ii) = m(ii-1) -(1/4) * (l(ii-1)) * dx +(exp(2*x*(ii-1)/(x(ii-1))))*dx;<----- this line keeps throwing an error
end
plot(x,l);
any assistance would be greatly appreciated
 
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What error are you getting?

If its during execution then perhaps a print statement inside your for loop printing out the results of L(ii) and M(ii) and some of your expressions will give you some insight into what going on.

You should be able to use the computer to help you find the error in your code by tracing its operations.
 
The way the code is it adds at every step ##e^{\frac{2x}{x}}dx## while I believe you want to add ##\frac{e^{2x}}{x}dx##. Check carefully the parentheses in the (exp(2*x)...) term at that line.

Also what it seems to be a typo it says exp(2*x*(ii-1)... while I believe it should be exp(2*x(ii-1))...

Also not sure since I am rusty on numerical methods and MATLAB code but this looks like the Euler Method for solving ODEs correct?
 
Last edited:
Good catch that x*(ii-1) is clearly wrong as the program needs x(ii-1)
 
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