Non-Homogeneous Heat Equation (Insulated Bar Question)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a non-homogeneous heat equation for an insulated bar, specifically finding the function U(x,t) given certain boundary and initial conditions. The problem involves the equation dU/dt = d²U/dx² + sin x, with boundary conditions related to the derivatives and values of U at specific points.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of separation of variables and the need to find eigenfunctions for the associated homogeneous boundary value problem. There is an exploration of different cases for the eigenvalues and how they relate to the boundary conditions.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on solving the associated ordinary differential equation and finding eigenvalues and eigenfunctions. There is ongoing questioning regarding the validity of the proposed solutions in relation to the boundary conditions, indicating a productive exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of the boundary conditions on the eigenfunctions and eigenvalues, with some uncertainty about whether the proposed solutions satisfy all conditions. The discussion reflects the complexity of the problem and the need for careful consideration of assumptions.

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Homework Statement


Find U(x,t)

dU/dt = d2U/dx2 + sin x

Boundary Conditions:
dU/dx (0,t) = 0

and

U(1,t) = 0

Initial Condition: U(x,0) = cos 7*π*x

2. The attempt at a solution

I start off with:
d2(Un)/dx2 = λnUn (as an initial value problem)

[d(Un)/dx](0) = 0; [d(Un)/dx](1) = 0

My teacher told me to use the orthogonality later on, but at this point I'm stuck.
Can anyone enlighten me? Thanks!
 
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ok, so so far you have assumed separatino of variables, that is u(x,t) = U(x)T(t) and

so now you'll need to find the eigenfunctions of the homogenous boundary value problem
U_n''(x) = \lambda_n U_n(x)
U_n(0) = 0
U_n'(1) = 0

now solve the ODE above for 3 separate cases λn <0, =0, >0 and see which values of λn are allowable for the given boundary conditions. This yields the eigenvalues & eigenfunctions for the boundary value problem.
 
lanedance said:
ok, so so far you have assumed separatino of variables, that is u(x,t) = U(x)T(t) and

so now you'll need to find the eigenfunctions of the homogenous boundary value problem
U_n&#039;&#039;(x) = \lambda_n U_n(x)
U_n(0) = 0
U_n&#039;(1) = 0

now solve the ODE above for 3 separate cases λn <0, =0, >0 and see which values of λn are allowable for the given boundary conditions. This yields the eigenvalues & eigenfunctions for the boundary value problem.

I get like U_n = cos(n \pi x) and \lambda _n = -(n \pi)^2
Is that correct?
 
do they satisfy you boundary conditions?

look ok for the 2nd, not so sure about the first
 

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