Simplifying Summation Algebra with Differential Equations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the simplification of series solutions in differential equations, specifically focusing on the manipulation of summation terms and the validity of cancelling terms in fractions of sums. Participants explore the implications of such cancellations and seek clarification on the correctness of their approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a series expression involving sums and questions whether the terms can be simplified by cancelling common factors, specifically the \(x^n\) terms.
  • Another participant argues against the validity of cancelling terms in the proposed manner, providing a counterexample to illustrate that such cancellation is not generally correct.
  • A third participant reiterates the point that cancellation is only valid when the same factor appears in both the numerator and denominator.
  • A further reply suggests combining the two sums into one and proposes rewriting the first sum to start from 2 to infinity as a potential method for simplification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the validity of cancelling terms in the given context. There is no consensus on how to simplify the expression correctly, and multiple viewpoints on the approach to take remain present.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the simplification process and the conditions under which cancellation of terms is valid. The discussion highlights the need for careful consideration of the mathematical properties involved in series and summation.

crazycool2
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Hi, I'm working with series solutions of differential equations and I have come across something that has troubled me other courses as well. given that
\begin{equation}
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+e^{-x} \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_{n}x^n \\
\text{where}\\
e^{-x}=\frac{1}{\sum_{n=0}^{\infty}\frac{x^n}{n!}}\\
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+\frac{ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_{n}x^n }{\sum_{n=0}^{\infty}\frac{x^n}{n!}}
\end{equation}
now my problem is I have the xn in every term and the limits are the same, but I have a fraction of sums and I want to a way to make it simpler. can the xn cancel each other in the fraction. if so
i then have
\begin{equation}
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_n*n!
\end{equation}
Is this even allowed?
 
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crazycool2 said:
Hi, I'm working with series solutions of differential equations and I have come across something that has troubled me other courses as well. given that
\begin{equation}
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+e^{-x} \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_{n}x^n \\
\text{where}\\
e^{-x}=\frac{1}{\sum_{n=0}^{\infty}\frac{x^n}{n!}}\\
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+\frac{ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_{n}x^n }{\sum_{n=0}^{\infty}\frac{x^n}{n!}}
\end{equation}
now my problem is I have the xn in every term and the limits are the same, but I have a fraction of sums and I want to a way to make it simpler. can the xn cancel each other in the fraction. if so
i then have
\begin{equation}
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_n*n!
\end{equation}
Is this even allowed?
No, this is not correct.

You can see this even by just looking at three terms: there is no reason why
##\frac{c_0+c_1x +c_2x²}{1+x+x²/2}=c_0+c_1 +c_2 2##
would be correct in general.
 
crazycool2 said:
Hi, I'm working with series solutions of differential equations and I have come across something that has troubled me other courses as well. given that
\begin{equation}
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+e^{-x} \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_{n}x^n \\
\text{where}\\
e^{-x}=\frac{1}{\sum_{n=0}^{\infty}\frac{x^n}{n!}}\\
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+\frac{ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_{n}x^n }{\sum_{n=0}^{\infty}\frac{x^n}{n!}}
\end{equation}
now my problem is I have the xn in every term and the limits are the same, but I have a fraction of sums and I want to a way to make it simpler. can the xn cancel each other in the fraction. if so
i then have
\begin{equation}
\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_{n+2}x^n+ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} c_n*n!
\end{equation}
Is this even allowed?
No. Cancelling works when the same factor appears in both numerator and denominator.
 
crazycool2 said:
Is this even allowed?
Hi crazycool2:

NO!

Take a look at making your cancellation with respect to a similar finite sum.

(a +bx+cx2) / (1 + x/1 + x2/2) =? (a+b+c)/(1+1+1/2)​

I understand that this insight will not help you simplify the DE solution you have. I am not sure what kind of simplification you need, but I suggest you start by combining the two sums into one. To do this first rewrite the first sum to be from 2 to ∞.

Hope this helps.

Regards,
Buzz
 

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