Solve y''-4=0: Find Function for y'=0, y=1 when x=2

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the differential equation y'' - 4 = 0, with the initial conditions y' = 0 and y = 1 when x = 2. Participants are exploring the implications of these conditions on the function y.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the meaning of the initial conditions and their implications for the function y. There is confusion regarding whether y' = 0 applies for all x or just at x = 2. Some participants suggest solving the differential equation first before applying the initial conditions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants clarifying the initial conditions and correcting misunderstandings about the relationship between y' and y''. Some guidance has been provided regarding the interpretation of the initial conditions, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach to the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the wording of the problem and the implications of the initial conditions, particularly the distinction between values at a specific point versus general behavior of the function.

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Homework Statement


If y'=0 and y=1 when x=2, and y''-4=0, find the function.


Homework Equations


[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}=\int\frac{d^{2}y}{dx^{2}}[/tex]



The Attempt at a Solution



I hate posting this because I am pretty sure the solution is easy but I just can't seem to see through this question...

If y'=0 then there must be no x term in the function f(x)... thus y=C is the only possibility. So then y=1 is the only possibility for the initial conditions given... And if y''=4 then shouldn't y'=4x+C? :/
 
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dontdisturbmycircles said:

Homework Statement


If y'=0 and y=1 when x=2, and y''-4=0, find the function.


Homework Equations


[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}=\int\frac{d^{2}y}{dx^{2}}[/tex]



The Attempt at a Solution



I hate posting this because I am pretty sure the solution is easy but I just can't seem to see through this question...

If y'=0 then there must be no x term in the function f(x)... thus y=C is the only possibility. So then y=1 is the only possibility for the initial conditions given... And if y''=4 then shouldn't y'=4x+C? :/

The boundary values are y(2) = 1 and..? What do you mean by y' = 0? For which x is this true?
 
Have you tried solving the equation y" - 4 =0, and then applying the initial conditions?

If y'=0 then there must be no x term in the function f(x)... thus y=C is the only possibility. So then y=1 is the only possibility for the initial conditions given...

Remember, they are not the general expression as a function of x; those are values of the function and its derivative at the point x = 2.
 
dontdisturbmycircles said:

Homework Statement


If y'=0 and y=1 when x=2, and y''-4=0, find the function.

These intial conditions are y'(2)=0 and y(2)=1. You have assumed y'=0 for all x.
 
Ahhh okay I was misreading the damned question, :redface:... I kinda thought it was worded funny... Trying to breeze through my homework too fast I guess.

Sorry! Thanks all, I get it now :-)
 
It didn't occur to you that is y'= 0 for all x, then y" couldn't be 4!:rolleyes:
 
Yes I knew it was impossible as well. But I figured that the question was not written wrong, I should have reread the question more carefully but I was in too much of a hurry(was due in like 10 minutes). My appologies.
 
Last edited:

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