Solution of differential equation with Dirac Delta

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the differential equation $$\partial_x^2y + \delta(x) \partial_x y + y= 0$$ under periodic boundary conditions from $$-\pi$$ to $$\pi$$. The user explores splitting the problem into regions $$x<0$$ and $$x>0$$, leading to linear equations with four variables. They seek guidance on relating the derivative at the interface $$x=0$$, particularly in the presence of the Dirac delta function. The conversation suggests the potential use of Fourier transforms as a technique for addressing the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential equations, specifically second-order linear equations.
  • Familiarity with the Dirac delta function and its properties.
  • Knowledge of periodic boundary conditions in mathematical physics.
  • Experience with Fourier transforms and their application in solving differential equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of Fourier transforms to solve differential equations with Dirac delta functions.
  • Study the properties of the Dirac delta function in relation to boundary conditions.
  • Explore techniques for solving second-order linear differential equations with discontinuities.
  • Investigate methods for handling derivatives at points of discontinuity in piecewise-defined functions.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, physicists, and engineers dealing with differential equations, particularly those interested in boundary value problems and the application of the Dirac delta function in modeling physical systems.

SarthakC
Messages
10
Reaction score
0
Is it possible to solve a differential equation of the following form?

$$\partial_x^2y + \delta(x) \partial_x y + y= 0$$

where ##\delta(x)## is the dirac delta function. I need the solution for periodic boundary conditions from ##-\pi## to ##\pi##.

I've realized that I can solve this for some types of boundary conditions. What i'd be really interested in is how to do this for periodic boundary conditions...

Technically, if I approach the problem by splitting the regions ##x<0## and ##x>0## and solve in each part separately, I can solve it and get linear equations in both regions. This will give me ##4## variables. Periodicity, and periodicity of the derivative will give me 2 equations. Continuity at ##x=0## will give me one more. How do i relate the derivative around the ##x=0## interface?

I guess I should make my actual problem a bit clearer as well. I'm basically interested in some technique by which I can get the information for the change in derivative of the function around the delta function.

A little background: If there was no delta function, but rather say some gaussian approximation, I would be expect to be able to solve it, but I don't see why I can't get the information of the derivative around ##x=0## when i put in a dirac delta function. My actual problem is reasonably more complicated but this is the quickest simple example I could reduce my problem to. If I try to integrate in an epsilon region around ##0##, then I end up with an expression in ##y^\prime(0)##, which isn't defined.

Any help or direction would be greatly appreciated!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Have you tried using a Fourier transform?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 52 ·
2
Replies
52
Views
8K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K