Solving 2nd Order DE: y''+4y'+5y=0 & y(0)=1, y'(0)=0

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a second-order differential equation, specifically y'' + 4y' + 5y = 0, with initial conditions y(0) = 1 and y'(0) = 0. Participants are exploring the implications of these conditions on the constants in the general solution.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to determine the constants in the general solution by applying the initial conditions. Questions arise regarding the values of the constants and the correctness of the derivative calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing guidance on the differentiation process and the implications of the initial conditions. There is a recognition that both conditions must be satisfied simultaneously, leading to a system of equations for the constants.

Contextual Notes

Some participants question the assumptions made about the constants and the correctness of the derivative, highlighting the need for careful application of differentiation rules. There is also mention of a lack of examples in the original poster's text, which may contribute to uncertainty in their approach.

laura_a
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Homework Statement


I had to solve the 2nd order d.e
y'' + 4y' + 5y=0
Which I have done, then I need to find a solution for which y(0)=1
and y'(0)=0



The Attempt at a Solution



My general soltuion for the d.e is y= e^(-2x) (c_1 *cos(x) + c_2*sin(x))

so for y(0)=1= e^0 (c_1 * 1 + 0)
so I end up with c_1=1 but I don't have an answer for c_2, I assume I just can't write c_2 =0? SO that is my first question. My second is how do I solve y'(0)=0 ... it might sound like a silly question but there is no examples in my text and I'm not sure, should I just do this

y= e^(-2x) (c_1 *cos(x) + c_2*sin(x))
y'= -e^(-2x)(c_2*cos(x) + 3*c_1*sin(x))
y'(0)=0=-e^0 * (c_2*cos(0) + 0)
0= c_2

So If I'm even on the right track, this means the constant(s) equal zero?
 
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If you insert zero in x for your solution it comes down to a c_1 cos(0) = 1 so we get...

If you derive your solution w.r.t. x and you again fill in zero you'll get: -2* c_2*cos(0) = 0 so we get...
 


yes constant may out to be zero depend on conditions.

your procedure was completely correct..
 


Your derivative of y is way off. You need to use the product rule. If you correct that you'll find you don't get c2=0.
 


Okay, I've re-done the derivative and ended up with

y' = e^(-2x)(C_2*cos(x) - C_1*sin(x)) - 2e^(-2x)*(C_1*cos(x) + C_2*sin(x))
so I had to find the solution for which y'(0)=0
y'(0)=0=e^0(C_2) - 2e^0(C1)
0=C_2 - 2C1
so

2C_1 = C_2

Firstly, is that correct working for y' and if so, how do I answer the question when I end up with two variables? do I just sub one of them into the equation so they all have the same C for example

y'=e^(-2x)(2C_1*cos(x) - C_1*sin(x)) - 2e^(-2x)*(C_1*cos(x) + 2C_1*sin(x))

Would that be an acceptable answer?
 


y(0) = 1 gives you the value of C_1 =1 .
 


Does that mean I can simply plug that into my y' that would give me...


y'=e^(-2x)(2cos(x) - sin(x)) - 2e^(-2x)*(cos(x) + 2sin(x))

Can you just do that, I didn't know I could use a value I got from y(0) into y'
 


In post 5 you correctly determined 2C_1 =C_2 and you know C_1...hence your y is solved for the constants. I don't know why you are struggling with y'.

Just determine your constants and then you're done, m'kay?
 


laura_a said:
Does that mean I can simply plug that into my y' that would give me...


y'=e^(-2x)(2cos(x) - sin(x)) - 2e^(-2x)*(cos(x) + 2sin(x))

Can you just do that, I didn't know I could use a value I got from y(0) into y'

The conditions y(0)=1 and y'(0)=0 have to both hold. It's two equations in the two unknowns C1 and C2. So of course you can substitute one into the other.
 

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