Separation of variables and generalised fourier series

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion focuses on solving the boundary value problem defined by the Laplace equation, \nabla^2u = 0, within the square domain [0, π] x [0, π]. The required solution is u(x,y) = \frac{x}{2\pi} + \frac{cos2y \sinh(2x)}{2\sinh(2\pi)}. The user expresses confusion regarding the application of separation of variables and boundary conditions, particularly in deriving the correct form of the solution. The discussion highlights the necessity of satisfying both the differential equation and the specified boundary conditions to validate the solution.

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Homework Statement



if [tex]\nabla^2u = 0[/tex] in [tex]0 \leq x \leq \pi, 0\leq y \leq \pi,[/tex]

boundary conditions u(0,y)=0, [tex]u(\pi,y)=cos^2y, u_y(x,0) = u_y(x,\pi)=0[/tex]


Homework Equations



I am required to show that [tex]u(x,y) = \frac{x}{2\pi} + \frac{cos2ysinh2x}{2sinh2\pi}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution




I have done similar questions before for example consider then following problem:

[tex]\nabla^2u = 0[/tex] in [tex]0 \leq x \leq a, 0\leq y \leq b,[/tex]

but with boundary conditions:

u(0,y)=0, u(a,y)=0, u(x,0)=0, u(x,b)=f(x)


I derived the general solution to be [tex]u(x,y) = \sum_{n=0}^\infty D_nsin\frac{n\pix}{a}sinh\frac{n\piy}{a}[/tex]

with [tex]D_n =\frac{2}{asinh\frac{n\pib}{a}}\int_{0}^{a}f(x)sin\frac{n\pix}{a}dx[/tex] n=1,2,3...



...This example I understand but in the first example I am confused so far I have done the following,

let u(x,y) =X(x)Y(y)

X(x) =Acospx + Bsinpx
Y(y) =Ccoshpy + Dsinhpy
then Y'(y) =Esinhpy + Fcoshpy

B.C's ->

X(0) =A=0

[tex]X(\pi)= Bsinp\pi=cos^2y[/tex]


[tex]Y'(0) = F=0, Y'(\pi)=0<br /> <br /> so Esinhp\pi=0[/tex] this seems to tell me nothing about E I have tried also type three solutions viz.

X(x)=Acoshpx + Bsinhpx

Y(y)= Ccospy + D sinpy
Y'(y)=Ecospy-Fsinpy

X(0)=A=0
[tex]X(\pi)= Bsinhp\pi =cos^2(y)[/tex]

Y'(0)=E=0

[tex]Y'(pi)= -Fsinppi=0[/tex]

when p = 1,2,3

so u(x,y) = [tex]\sum_{p=0}^\infty F_nsinpxsinhpy[/tex]

which is markedly different to the form of solution required, what am I doing wrong??
















 
Last edited:
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If you only need show that the expression you give is the solution, can you not just show it satisfies the equation and that it satisfies the boundary conditions?
 

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