Solving a PDE Using Finite Difference Method

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a specific equation involving partial derivatives using the finite difference method. Participants explore the nature of the equation, whether it is a partial differential equation (PDE) or an ordinary differential equation (ODE), and the implications of known boundary and initial conditions on the solution process.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an equation and inquires about the possibility of solving it using finite difference methods, suggesting a combination of solutions for P and C.
  • Another participant asserts that the equation is a second order ordinary differential equation (ODE) rather than a partial differential equation (PDE) and asks about boundary or initial conditions.
  • A third participant provides boundary and initial conditions for the variables involved, indicating the context for the problem.
  • A later reply reiterates the classification of the equation as a PDE, emphasizing the roles of the independent variables and the dependent function, while expressing uncertainty about the solution process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants disagree on the classification of the equation as either a PDE or an ODE. There is no consensus on the correct approach to solving the equation, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the method to be employed.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the nature of the equation, and the implications of the boundary and initial conditions on the solution process are still under discussion.

kitz2
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Hi

The equation is:

\frac{dP}{dt}-A*\frac{{d}^2P}{dx^2}-B*\frac{dC}{dt}=0

dP/dt=A*d2P/dx^2 was solved using a finite difference method. If the function C(x,t) is known, is it possible to solve the whole equation by using the finite difference solution as a supplement to the complete solution. I mean solving dP/dt = B*dC/dt, and add them together or something. In case, how do I go about it?

Im using MATLAB and from the first finite difference solution I have an matrix for P(x,t) with all values for different x and t, and I also have a matrix for C(x,t) with all values for x and t. What I did was adding the P matrix with the C matrix multiplied with B , which have equal size. When the result was not as I wanted I tried adding the P matrix with P(matrix)+B*C(matrix), so I had 2*P(matrix) + B*C(matrix). Then I got a result which looked alright, but obviosuly it is just a shot in the dark, and not "math".

Im not very good at math as you might notice :blushing:
 
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This is not a partial differential equation (pde) it is a second order ordinary differential equation (ode). Are there any boundary or initail conditions that must be satisfied ?
 
Boundary and inital conditions:

C=Co , t=0, 0<=x<=inf.
C=Cdf x-> inf , t >0
P=Po , t=0 0<=x<=inf.
P=Po t>0 x-> inf.
P=Pw x=0 t>0
 
CFDFEAGURU said:
This is not a partial differential equation (pde) it is a second order ordinary differential equation (ode). Are there any boundary or initail conditions that must be satisfied ?

It is a partial differential equation, both t and x are the independent variables and P the dependent function to find. C is a given function, but I don't see how to solve it. Certainly numerical ways should be possible but I can't help you on this.

coomast
 

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