Solving DE Using Variation of Parameters & Given Solution

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the differential equation (1-x)y'' + xy' - y = (1-x)^2 using the method of Variation of Parameters. The user identifies that y = x is a known solution when the right-hand side is zero. To proceed, they rewrite the equation in a more manageable form and receive guidance to apply the Reduction of Order technique, specifically letting y = xv. This approach successfully leads to the general solution of the differential equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential equations, specifically second-order linear equations.
  • Familiarity with the Variation of Parameters method for solving differential equations.
  • Knowledge of the Reduction of Order technique for finding additional solutions.
  • Ability to manipulate and rewrite differential equations into standard forms.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Variation of Parameters method in detail, focusing on its application to non-homogeneous equations.
  • Learn the Reduction of Order technique, particularly how to apply it when only one solution is known.
  • Practice solving second-order linear differential equations with varying coefficients.
  • Explore additional resources on complementary solutions and their role in solving differential equations.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying differential equations, educators teaching advanced mathematics, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of solution techniques for second-order linear differential equations.

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Homework Statement


I must solve [itex](1-x)y''+xy'-y=(1-x)^2[/itex] knowing that y=x is a solution if the right hand side is 0. I must use this fact in order to obtain the general solution to the DE


Homework Equations


Variation of parameters?


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm looking at http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/DE/VariationofParameters.aspx and I think I need to use the Variation of parameters to solve the problem.
But I'm given only one complementary solution, not the two I would need. I really don't know how to proceed then...
What I did was rewrite the DE into [itex]y''+y' \left ( \frac{x}{1-x} \right )-y \left ( \frac{1}{1-x} \right ) =1-x[/itex].
Any tip will be appreciated, as usual.
 
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Use Reduction of Order when you have only one solution. Just let y=xv and run it through the technique.
 
jackmell said:
Use Reduction of Order when you have only one solution. Just let y=xv and run it through the technique.

Thanks, this worked out well.
 

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