Solution for 1st order, homogenous PDE

In summary, the equation ##u_t + t \cdot u_x = 0## represents the tangent to a surface, with the perpendicular vector represented by the second vector. The characteristic equations ##\frac{dt}{ds} = 1##, ##\frac{dx}{ds} = t##, and ##\frac{dz}{ds} = 0## can be used to parameterize the equation. The solution set for these equations is given by ##t = s + c_1##, ##x = s^2 + c_2 \cdot s + c_3##, and ##z = c_4##, and can be further manipulated to determine the constant terms. Boundary conditions are used to determine
  • #1
James Brady
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##u_t + t \cdot u_x = 0##

The equation can be written as ##<1, t, 0> \cdot <d_t, d_x, -1>## where the second vector represents the perpendicular vector to the surface and since the dot product is zero, the first vector must necessarily represent the tangent to the surface. We parameterize this by s:

characteristic equations:

##\frac{dt}{ds} = 1##
##\frac{dx}{ds} = t##
##\frac{dz}{ds} = 0##

After switching around variables for a bit, we get a solution set of:

##t = s + c_1##
##x = s^2 + c_2 \cdot s + c_3##
##z = c_4##

Equations one and two can be combined to get:

##x = (t + c_1)^2+ c_2 \cdot (t + c_1) + c_3##

And we can manipulate that around a bit more, but in the end, we can't isolate any constant term. I've been finishing the problems here by equating the z = constant and another solution equals a constant. In my book, there's a problem like this, but boundary conditions are used to get rid of certain terms and make it work out.
 
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  • #2
The constants are determined by the given conditions (boundary conditions and initial conditions).
 
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FAQ: Solution for 1st order, homogenous PDE

1. What is a first order, homogeneous PDE?

A first order, homogeneous PDE (partial differential equation) is a type of mathematical equation that involves partial derivatives of a function with respect to multiple independent variables. It is considered first order because it only involves first derivatives, and it is homogeneous because all of the terms in the equation have the same degree.

2. How do you solve a first order, homogeneous PDE?

To solve a first order, homogeneous PDE, you can use the method of separation of variables. This involves separating the variables into two separate functions and then solving for each function separately. You can also use the method of characteristics, which involves finding a set of curves along which the PDE reduces to an ordinary differential equation.

3. What is the importance of boundary conditions in solving a first order, homogeneous PDE?

Boundary conditions are crucial in solving a first order, homogeneous PDE because they provide additional information about the solution. These conditions specify the values of the solution at the boundaries of the domain, which helps to determine the unique solution to the PDE. Without boundary conditions, there may be an infinite number of possible solutions.

4. Can a first order, homogeneous PDE have multiple solutions?

Yes, a first order, homogeneous PDE can have multiple solutions. This is because the PDE itself does not provide enough information to determine a unique solution. Boundary conditions are needed to narrow down the possible solutions and determine the unique solution.

5. Can numerical methods be used to solve a first order, homogeneous PDE?

Yes, numerical methods can be used to solve a first order, homogeneous PDE. These methods involve approximating the solution using a grid or mesh and solving the PDE at discrete points. Some common numerical methods for solving PDEs include finite difference methods, finite element methods, and spectral methods.

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