Solution to a second order differential equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around solving a second-order differential equation related to damped harmonic motion, specifically one that includes a non-linear drag force term. Participants explore methods for addressing the equation, including potential numerical and transcendental approaches, while seeking clarification on the nature of the variables involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a differential equation from a textbook and expresses interest in understanding how to solve it using transcendental methods, noting its connection to damped harmonic motion.
  • Another participant questions the nature of the variable ##y##, asking whether it is a function of ##x## or an independent variable, indicating a need for clarification on the context of the equation.
  • A third participant reiterates the question about the nature of ##y##, providing additional context that ##y## represents the height of a particle released from rest.
  • A fourth participant suggests a substitution method, proposing to let ##p = \frac{dy}{dt}## and transforming the original equation into a first-order equation, offering a potential pathway to a solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to solving the differential equation, and multiple viewpoints regarding the nature of the variables and methods remain present.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the form of the drag force and the nature of the variables involved, which may not be fully resolved. The transition from a second-order to a first-order equation through substitution is presented but not confirmed as the definitive method.

Taylor_1989
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I have currently been reading a book called 'Mathematical Methods In Physical Sciences'. Whilest I was looking at the differential section I came across a differential which I have never thought about before, which is of the form:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Directly from book

$$m\left(\frac{d^2y}{dt^2}\right)\pm l\left(\frac{dy}{dt}\right)^2+ky=0$$where the plus or minus sign must be chosen correctly at each stage of the motion
so that the retarding force opposes the motion. Let us solve the following special
case of this problem. Discuss the motion of a particle which is released from rest at
the point y = 1 when t = 0, and obeys the equation of motion

$$4\left(\frac{d^2y}{dt^2}\right)\pm 2\left(\frac{dy}{dt}\right)^2+y=0$$
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------And whilst I was reading how to solve it but it sort of breaks off, it starts explain the Bernoulli method then talks about the transcendental function, as stops. The actual equation in referring damped harmonic motion on a spring except that drag force is now of the form ##F=-bv^2## I assume. So I have tried to do a bit of research and not come up with much, I did think this could be done numerically by series solutions but I am interested to how this equation is solved through transcendental methods, and was wondering if some could explain the the approach on how to solve or even refer me to a bit of literature that could help me understand. This is my first time really tackling this type of differential so it a new concept and one I would like to understand.
 
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Is ##y## a function of ##x##? Or is it an independent variable?
 
Dewgale said:
Is ##y## a function of ##x##? Or is it an independent variable?
In there example y is the height to which the a particle from rest is released at t=0, also sorry I write the equation in the book form to make it clearer.
 
My approach would be the following: you can try making the substitution ##p = \frac{dy}{dt}##. Using chain rule, you can find that ##\frac{dp}{dt} = \frac{dp}{dy}\frac{dy}{dt} = p \frac{dp}{dy}##. This gives you

$$ 4p \frac{dp}{dy} \pm 2 p^2 +y = 0$$

This is now a first-order equation. Try and solve it from here. Hope this helps, and hopefully it's what you were looking for.

Divide through by ##4p##.
 
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