Series solutions for differential equation

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a differential equation using power series methods. The specific equation under consideration is 3xy'' + y' - y = 0, which presents challenges due to its singularity at x=0.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions how to derive two independent solutions, noting that their coefficients seem dependent on an initial term. Some participants suggest considering the singular nature of the differential equation and its implications for the solutions.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the nature of the solutions, with some guidance offered regarding the singular point and the types of solutions that may arise. There is acknowledgment of the complexity introduced by the singularity, but no consensus has been reached on a specific method or solution.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the singularity at x=0 and its impact on the power series solution, indicating that one of the solutions may be nonsingular while the other is not. This constraint is central to the problem being addressed.

ktklam9
Messages
3
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Use the power series to solve the following differential equations, state the first four terms of the two independent solutions.

3xy'' + y' - y = 0

Homework Equations



The power series.

The Attempt at a Solution



f1mpg0.png


How do I get two independent solutions out of this? All of my coefficients will depend on the first a...?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Your differential equation is singular at x=0. There are two solutions but one of them is singular at x=0. Your power series solution will only pick up the nonsingular one.
 
Ah ok, so the problem is screwed up from the beginning, thanks :)
 
Search for the form of the series solution near a regular singular point.
 

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K