Mechanical Vibrations Differential Equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the differential equation y'' + 16y = tan(4t). The homogeneous solution is correctly identified as C1cos(4t) + C2sin(4t). The challenge arises in finding a particular solution due to the discontinuities of the tangent function, suggesting that the method of undetermined coefficients may not be suitable. Instead, the variation of parameters is recommended as a more effective approach to handle the non-standard form of the right-hand side.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential equations, specifically second-order linear equations.
  • Familiarity with methods of solving differential equations, including undetermined coefficients and variation of parameters.
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions and their properties, particularly the tangent function.
  • Basic concepts of resonance in mechanical systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of variation of parameters for finding particular solutions to differential equations.
  • Review the properties and behavior of the tangent function, especially its discontinuities.
  • Explore resonance phenomena in mechanical vibrations and its implications in differential equations.
  • Practice solving similar differential equations with non-standard right-hand sides.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in engineering, physics, or applied mathematics who are dealing with mechanical vibrations and differential equations. This discussion is particularly beneficial for those looking to deepen their understanding of solving complex differential equations.

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Homework Statement



Find the general solution for the differential equation

Homework Equations



y'' + 16y = tan(4t)

The Attempt at a Solution



I get C1cos(4t) + C2sin(4t) = 0 for my homogeneous equation.

I did the usual method of undetermined coefficients (I think I took all of the derivatives correctly). However I'm getting something strange for yp. I can't really make sense of the solution. Does this have something to do with the fact that the tangent function has discontinuities? Would this be some kind of resonance?
 
Last edited:
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There is no sort of 'fixed' form for the PI of tan(4t), you might need to try variation of parameters to solve it.
 
Oh yeah! Thanks for the help!
 

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