Second ODE - Using x = e^t show that the equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on transforming the second-order ordinary differential equation (ODE) given by ax²(d²y/dx²) + b(dy/dx) + cy = 0 using the substitution x = e^t. Participants explore the implications of this substitution on the derivatives of y with respect to t and x. Key points include the application of the chain rule and product rule in differentiation, leading to the conclusion that the second derivative d²y/dx² can be expressed in terms of derivatives with respect to t. The final transformation yields a simplified form of the original equation, facilitating easier analysis and solution.

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  • #31
Standard terminology really, sorry if i didn't explain.

<br /> \dot{x}=\frac{dx}{dt}<br />

You know the chain rule?

<br /> \frac{df}{dx}=\frac{dt}{dx}\frac{df}{dt}<br />

Let:

<br /> f=\frac{dy}{dt}<br />

and you have your answer.
 
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  • #32
Okay,

<br /> <br /> \frac{df}{dx}=\frac{dt}{dx}\frac{df}{dt}<br /> <br />

You were using f but in our case we set y = dy/dt?

Thanks
I think I see ;)
 
  • #33
hunt_mat said:
In order to avoid all this nonsense about tranformations, just look for solutions of the form x^n of your original equation
In other words just don't do the problem you are given?

There are many good reasons for knowing that this substitution will change an Euler-type (or "equipotential") equation to an equation with constant coefficients having the same characteristic equation.

For example, how would you solve
\frac{d^2y}{dx^2}+ 3x\frac{dy}{dx}+ y= cos(ln(x))
by letting y= x^r?
 
  • #34
For this particular problem why not do as I suggested? It's a valid teachnique, it's a known solution.
 

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