PDE and the separation of variables

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a partial differential equation (PDE) using the method of separation of variables, specifically the equation ##u(x,y)=f(x)g(y)##. Participants express confusion regarding the term ##u_{t}## and whether it should be set to zero. The consensus is that assuming ##u_{t}=0## is incorrect, and instead, the solution should involve separating the variables into a function of time, ##u(t)##, and a function of space, ##u(x,y)##. This approach aligns with the relevant equation ##u_{t}=c^{2}(u_{xx}+u_{yy})##.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of partial differential equations (PDEs)
  • Familiarity with the method of separation of variables
  • Knowledge of ordinary differential equations (ODEs)
  • Basic concepts of heat equations in mathematical physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to apply the method of separation of variables to solve heat equations
  • Study the derivation and implications of the heat equation ##u_{t}=c^{2}(u_{xx}+u_{yy})##
  • Explore the concept of separating variables into time and spatial components in PDEs
  • Investigate common pitfalls in solving PDEs, particularly regarding assumptions about variable independence
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Mathematics students, educators, and professionals involved in solving partial differential equations, particularly those focusing on heat transfer and mathematical modeling.

Magnetons
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Homework Statement
Apply the method of separation of variables ##u(x,y)=f(x)g(y)## to solve the equation .
Relevant Equations
##u_{t}=c^{2}(u_{xx}+u_{yy})##
using the equation ##u(x,y)=f(x)g(y)##, first, I substitute the value of ##u_{xx}## and ##u_{yy}## in the given PDE. after that solve the ODEs but I can't understand about the ##u_{t}##.In my solution, I put ##u_{t}=0## because u is only the function of x and y. Is it the right approach, to me it seems wrong
 

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Aren't you supposed to separate in a different way ? In u(t) and u(x,y) for example :wink:

##\ ##
 
Google 'heat equation'
 
BvU said:
Aren't you supposed to separate in a different way ? In u(t) and u(x,y) for example :wink:

##\ ##

don't know it is how the question is given in the book
 
Well, you run into trouble with ##u_t=0##, so I suggest to try something different.

##\ ##
 
BvU said:
Well, you run into trouble with ##u_t=0##, so I suggest to try something different.

##\ ##
something different ..
 
Magnetons said:
Homework Statement: Apply the method of separation of variables ##u(x,y)=f(x)g(y)## to solve the equation .
Relevant Equations: ##u_{t}=c^{2}(u_{xx}+u_{yy})##

using the equation ##u(x,y)=f(x)g(y)##, first, I substitute the value of ##u_{xx}## and ##u_{yy}## in the given PDE. after that solve the ODEs but I can't understand about the ##u_{t}##.In my solution, I put ##u_{t}=0## because u is only the function of x and y. Is it the right approach, to me it seems wrong

If they wanted you to assume u_t = 0, would they not have just asked for u_{xx} + u_{yy} = 0?

Perhaps you are expected to make the leap to u = h(t)f(x,y).
 
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pasmith said:
If they wanted you to assume u_t = 0, would they not have just asked for u_{xx} + u_{yy} = 0?

Perhaps you are expected to make the leap to u = h(t)f(x,y).
No ## u_t = 0 ## doesn't mention in question i assume it .
 

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Magnetons said:
don't know it is how the question is given in the book
Yeah, they managed to confuse you (on purpose?) writing ##u(x,y)=f(x)g(y)## instead of ##u(p,q)=f(p)g(q)## or something less suggestive...

Your post #8 explains why. (and post#7 IS exercise 25 (h) ! )

##\ ##
 
  • #10
BvU said:
Yeah, they managed to confuse you (on purpose?) writing ##u(x,y)=f(x)g(y)## instead of ##u(p,q)=f(p)g(q)## or something less suggestive...

Your post #8 explains why. (and post#7 IS exercise 25 (h) ! )

##\ ##
how should I solve this equation
 
  • #11
pasmith said:
make the leap to u = h(t)f(x,y).
 
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  • #12
Found a satisfactory solution ?

##\ ##
 

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