Series solution for y +x*y=0

In summary, the conversation discusses finding a series solution for the function y"+x*y=0. The process involves working on a recurrence relation and trying different approaches until arriving at the solution of y = Ʃ a(n)*x^n, where a(0) and a(1) are arbitrary, a(2) = 0, and a(n) = -a(n-3) / [n(n-1)].
  • #1
BobMarly
19
0
Series solution for y"+x*y=0

Working on recurance realtion.
Get to (sum(n=2))n*(N-1)*a(n)*X^(n-2)+(sum(n=0))a(n)*x^(n)
Try several things but not sure if their correct.
 
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  • #2


Try y = Ʃ a(n)*x^n
where n goes from 0 to infinity

Now y'' = Ʃ n(n-1)*a(n)*x^(n-2)
where n goes from 2 to infinity

and x*y = Ʃ a(n)*x^(n+1)
where n goes from 0 to infinity

We want these to have the same power of x i.e. n-2, so let's write them as follows:

y'' = 2*a(2) + Ʃ n(n-1)*a(n)*x^(n-2)
where n goes from 3 to infinity
(we just pulled the first term out of the summation)

x*y = Ʃ a(n-3)*x^(n-2)
where n goes from 3 to infinity
(index shift)

Thus we have y'' + x*y = 2*a(2) + Ʃ [ n(n-1)*a(n) + a(n-3) ]*x^(n-2)
where n goes from 3 to infinity.

We want this to equal zero, so we have that:
y = Ʃ a(n)*x^n, where
a(0) and a(1) are arbitrary,
a(2) = 0,
and a(n) = -a(n-3) / [n(n-1)]Hope that helps :)
 

1. What is a series solution for y + x*y = 0?

A series solution for y + x*y = 0 is a method of solving a differential equation by expressing the solution as a power series. This allows for an infinite number of terms to be included in the solution, providing a more precise answer.

2. How is a series solution for y + x*y = 0 obtained?

A series solution for y + x*y = 0 is obtained by substituting the power series into the differential equation and solving for the coefficients of each term. This usually involves a recursive process, where the coefficients of each term are determined based on the coefficients of the previous terms.

3. What are the advantages of using a series solution for y + x*y = 0?

One advantage of using a series solution for y + x*y = 0 is that it can provide a more accurate solution compared to other methods, especially for complex or nonlinear equations. It also allows for a more systematic approach to solving the equation, making it easier to identify patterns and make predictions.

4. Are there any limitations to using a series solution for y + x*y = 0?

One limitation of using a series solution for y + x*y = 0 is that it may not always converge, meaning that the solution obtained may not be valid for all values of x. In addition, the process of finding the coefficients can become increasingly complex and time-consuming for higher order equations.

5. Can a series solution for y + x*y = 0 be used for all types of differential equations?

No, a series solution for y + x*y = 0 is generally only applicable to linear differential equations. Nonlinear equations may require other methods of solving, such as numerical or graphical methods.

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