Question on Dirichlet problem in cylinder with radial symmetry.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the Dirichlet problem for a cylinder with radial symmetry, specifically focusing on the derivation of solutions to the governing equations under given boundary conditions. Participants explore the implications of the boundary value problem on the parameter k and its effect on the solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the governing equation \(\nabla^2U(\rho,z)=R''+\frac{1}{\rho}R'+\frac{Z''}{Z}=0\) and expresses confusion about the implications of k being negative, suggesting that it leads to a parametric Bessel's equation.
  • Another participant asserts that the boundary value problem for Z restricts k to positive values, indicating that only \(k = \mu^2 > 0\) yields non-trivial solutions.
  • A later reply confirms that k = 0 also leads to a trivial solution, prompting further verification of the implications of k = 0 on the boundary conditions.
  • One participant questions the form of the solution when k = 0, suggesting that the general solution does not take the sine or cosine form, and encourages applying boundary conditions to clarify the outcome.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of k being negative or zero, with some asserting that only positive k leads to non-trivial solutions, while others explore the consequences of k = 0. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the complete characterization of solutions under these conditions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in understanding the implications of boundary conditions on the parameter k, particularly regarding the transition from k = 0 to non-negative values and the nature of solutions derived from the governing equations.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in boundary value problems, mathematical physics, and the application of Bessel functions in cylindrical coordinates may find this discussion relevant.

yungman
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This is not homework.

I have problem deriving the solution for cylinder with radial symmetry given:

\nabla^2U(\rho,z)=R''+\frac{1}{\rho}R'+\frac{Z''}{Z}=0

Which give \rho^2 R''+ \rho R' -k\rho^2 R=0 \hbox { and } Z''+kZ=0

With given boundary conditions U(\rho,0) = U(\rho,h) =0 \hbox { for } \rho<a \hbox{ and } U(a,z) = f(z)

The book claimed k=-\lambda^2 = -ve can only produce trivial solution of R. I cannot verify this.

k=-ve give \rho^2 R''+ \rho R' +\lambda^2 R=0

This is parametric Bessel's equation of order zero which give R(\rho)=c_1 J_0(\lambda_n\rho) + c_2 Y_0(\lambda_n\rho)

R(0) is bounded \Rightarrow c_2 = 0 \Rightarrow R(\rho)= c_1 J_0(\lambda_n\rho)

That's where I get stuck. I cannot rule this out R(\rho)= c_1 J_0(\lambda_n\rho) as a solution with the given boundary condition.

The book claimed only k=+ve would give solution. Please give me some suggestion.
 
Last edited:
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It is the Z boundary value problem which restricts the values of k. Your Z bvp is:

Z'' + k Z = 0
Z(0) = Z(h) = 0

If you solve this you will find that only k = μ2 > 0 gives non-trivial solutions. So these are the values that must be used in the other equation too.
 
LCKurtz said:
It is the Z boundary value problem which restricts the values of k. Your Z bvp is:

Z'' + k Z = 0
Z(0) = Z(h) = 0

If you solve this you will find that only k = μ2 > 0 gives non-trivial solutions. So these are the values that must be used in the other equation too.

I am embarrassed! Thank you very much.

One more verification. Z''+kZ=0 \Rightarrow Z=d_1cos(\sqrt{k} z) + d_2 sin (\sqrt{k} z)

for k=0 \Rightarrow Z=d_1.\;\;U(\rho,0)=0 \Rightarrow d_1=0 \
I don't know why I cannot edit the d_2 portion.


Therefore k=0 give trivial solution also. Am I correct?

Thanks a million
Alan
 
Last edited:
When k = 0 the solution to the equation does not have a {sine,cosine} form. It is just:

Z'' = 0.

Apply the boundary conditions to the general solution of that and see what happens.
 
Thanks
 

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