Simple question about Variaton of Parameters in 1 variable

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the Wronskian in solving second-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using the method of variation of parameters. It clarifies that the process described, involving replacing a column with zeroes and substituting the last column with g(x), is not a standard approach for variation of parameters but rather a technique related to Cramer's rule. The conversation emphasizes that Cramer's rule is used to solve systems of equations by manipulating determinants, providing a clear formula for finding unknowns in a two-variable system.

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  • Understanding of second-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs)
  • Familiarity with the Wronskian and its applications
  • Knowledge of Cramer's rule for solving systems of equations
  • Basic proficiency in determinant calculations
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  • Study the method of variation of parameters in detail
  • Learn about the Wronskian and its significance in differential equations
  • Explore Cramer's rule and its applications in linear algebra
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Remixex
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Given a generic second order ODE, normalized that equals to g(x)
I saw in a video that, when writing the Wronskian, W1 and W2, for writing W1 you had to "delete" the first column if the Determinant and replace it with zeroes until you reach the end, where you replace it with g(x)
Is this always true no matter the initial value problem? (as long as the solution exists of course)
 
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I think you are misunderstanding the purpose. That sounds like it is not directly a matter of "variation of parameters" but specifically a method of solving a system of equations called "Cramer's rule". To find the "i"th unknown in a system of n equations form a fraction with the determinant of coefficients in the denominator and the numerator the same except that the i column is replaced by the right hand side of the system.
For example, if ax+ by = e and cx+ dy= f then
[tex]x= \frac{\left|\begin{array}{cc} e & b \\ f & d \end{array}\right|}{\left|\begin{array}{cc}a & b \\ c & d \end{array}\right|}[/tex]
and
[tex]y= \frac{\left|\begin{array}{cc}a & e \\ c & f \end{array}\right|}{\left|\begin{array}{cc}a & b \\ c & d \end{array}\right|}[/tex]
 

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