Prove that its a linear operator

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving that a given operator, defined as T(f) = d²f/dx² + 2df/dx, is a linear operator. Participants are exploring the properties of linearity in the context of differential operators.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the operator to a scalar multiple of a function and the sum of two functions. They examine the steps involved in showing that T(kf) = kT(f) and T(f + g) = T(f) + T(g).

Discussion Status

Some participants confirm the correctness of the initial steps, while others suggest that certain derivations need to be explicitly stated for clarity. The conversation is ongoing, with multiple interpretations being explored regarding the proof structure.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on ensuring that each step in the proof is clearly articulated, as the validity of the overall proof relies on these details. Participants are also addressing potential omissions in the derivation process.

transgalactic
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prove that a linear operator..
<br /> T(f):=\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}<br />

T(kf)=kT(f) part:
<br /> T(kf):=k\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2k\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}=k(\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x})=kT(f)\\<br />

is it correct??
 
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Yes it is. Now what is
\frac{d(f(x)+ g(x))}{dx}
 
Yes, it's correct, but you skipped a skip in the derivation, if you want to be explicit. It should be:

T(kf)= \frac{d^2 (kf)}{dx^2} + 2\frac{d(kf)}{dx^2} = k\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2k\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}=k(\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x})=kT(f)\\

Since the entire proof relies on this step, it is important to include it. Now to finish the proof you need to show T(f+g) = Tf + Tf.
 
" T(f + g) = T(f) + T(f) "

Actually, what phreak meant was

" T(f + g) = T(f) + T(g) "
 
HallsofIvy said:
Yes it is. Now what is
\frac{d(f(x)+ g(x))}{dx}

i think its
<br /> \frac{d(f(x)+ g(x))}{dx}=\frac{d(f(x)+d(g(x)}{dx}<br />
 
af ter that
if i got a derivative of a sum and there is dx in the demoniator
then i just brake it into two peaces
<br /> T(f):=\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}\\<br />
<br /> T(f+g):=\frac{\mathrm{d^2(f+g)} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{d(f+g)} }{\mathrm{d} x}=\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}+\frac{\mathrm{d^2g} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{dg} }{\mathrm{d} x}<br /> =T(f)+T(g)<br />
 
Yep, that's right.
 

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