Problem manipulating solution of a differential equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the manipulation of the solution to the differential equation Y'(u) = A(u)Y(u), specifically focusing on the general solution V(u). It is established that if A(u) is antisymmetric, denoted by ^{t}A(u) = -A(u), then ^{t}V(u)V(u) equals the identity matrix I. The hint provided states that V(0) = I, which is derived from the property of exponential functions where e^0 equals 1. The solution involves differentiating ^{t}V(u)V(u) to show it is constant, confirming the relationship with the identity matrix.

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  • Understanding of differential equations, specifically linear systems.
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Homework Statement



[itex]Y'(u) = A(u)Y(u)[/itex]

[itex]V(u)[/itex] is the general solution

The question asks to show that if [itex]A(u)[/itex] is antisymetric for all [itex]u[/itex]
i.e. [itex]^{t}A(u) = -A(u)[/itex] for all [itex]u[/itex]
Then [itex]^{t}V(u).V(u) = I[/itex]

Homework Equations



A hint says to use the fact that [itex]V(0) = I[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



Using the fact given in the hint I have a solution

(differentiate [itex]^{t}V(u).V(u)[/itex] and show that this is zero, therefore [itex]^{t}V(u).V(u)[/itex] is constant, and since the hint implies [itex]^{t}V(0).V(0) = I[/itex] the problem is solved)

HOWEVER, I do not understand why [itex]V(0) = I[/itex]!
Maybe it's something obvious which I just cannot spot!
Please could somebody explain this to me
 
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V(0)=I because [itex]V(x) = K_1e^{\int A(x)\text{d}x}[/itex]
i.e. every exp function with argument 0 is 1.
So you have to prove that it is the solution V(x) maybe?
 

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