Solving BVP with Analytical Solution in (0,1)^2

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a boundary value problem (BVP) defined in the domain (0,1)^2, specifically addressing the equation -u_{xx} - u_{yy} = 0. Participants explore the boundary conditions necessary for the analytical solution, which is proposed to be u(x,y) = θ, and discuss numerical approaches to solving the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in determining the boundary conditions for the BVP, seeking clarification on how to approach this aspect.
  • Another participant introduces the concept of polar coordinates, suggesting a transformation that might simplify the problem.
  • A participant reiterates their focus on identifying the necessary boundary conditions for both analytical and numerical solutions.
  • One participant asserts that the boundary condition must be u = θ on the boundary, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the question's requirements.
  • Another participant proposes specific boundary conditions, including u = 0 on y = 0 and u = arctan(y) on x = 1, among others, as potential candidates for the problem.
  • A suggestion is made to transform the differential equation into cylindrical polar coordinates to gain further insights into the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the boundary conditions required for the BVP, with multiple competing views and suggestions presented throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the uncertainty surrounding the appropriate boundary conditions and the implications of transforming the equation into different coordinate systems. There are also unresolved aspects regarding the numerical solution approach.

ty1998
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TL;DR
How to determine the boundary conditions to this elliptic BVP given an analytical solution
For this BVP in ##(0,1)^2##,
$$
-u_{xx} - u_{yy} = 0
$$
subject to some boundary data it is said the analytical solution is ##u(x,y) = \theta##. I've thought about this for awhile I can't seem to figure out how to determine the boundary conditions for this BVP. Moreover, ##\theta## is illustrated in figure attached. Some comments would be greatly appreciated.
 

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In polar coordinates, x = r \cos \theta \qquad y = r \sin \theta. Since you're in the first quadrant both x and y are positive, so you don't lose any information by dividing: <br /> \frac yx = \tan \theta.
 
Thank you for the reply. However, given that I am also trying to also solve this numerically, I was curious what BCs I would need to satisfy the equations? This is my main concern.
 
The question is given that ##u=\theta## is the solution to the differential equation given unknown boundary conditions, what must those unknown boundary conditions be?

It's stupidly obvious actually, the boundary condition must be ##u=\theta## on the boundary. I feel like I must not understand the question right.
 
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Substitute into the given equation: u = 0 on y = 0, u = \pi/2 on x = 0, u = \arctan(y) on x = 1, and u = \arctan(x^{-1}) on y = 1.
 
Transform the differential equation (Laplace's equation) to cylindrical polar coordinates and see what it says.
 

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