Solving Differential Equations with Variation of Parameters

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving differential equations using the method of variation of parameters. The original poster presents a problem involving a differential equation where one solution is known, and they are tasked with finding the general solution for a related equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply variation of parameters but expresses confusion regarding the substitution process and simplification of terms.
  • Some participants question the simplification of the derived equation and suggest that it may lead to an easier form to solve.
  • Others introduce alternative methods for finding linearly independent solutions, referencing the use of a function multiplied by a variable.
  • There are inquiries about the correctness of the steps taken in the calculations and where potential errors may have occurred.

Discussion Status

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of variation of parameters and are addressing potential misunderstandings in the application of the method. There is a focus on ensuring the correct interpretation of the differential equations involved.

Illusionist
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Homework Statement


Given that y=x^2 is a solution to the differential equation:
(x^2)y'' + 2xy' - 6y = 0 <--- Eq.(1)
find the general solution of the differential equation
(x^2)y'' + 2xy' - 6y = 10(x^7) + 15(x^2) <--- Eq.(2)
Hence write down a second linear dependent solution of equation (1) and a particular solution of equation (2).

Homework Equations


I've basically concluded that variation of parameters is necessary. I don't think I completely understand what is being asked.

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried letting y= V(y1) = V(X^2)
hence y'= (x^2)V' + 2xV and
y''= (x^2)V'' + 2xV' + 2V
Here is where I think I'm getting confused, sub. back into (1) I get:
V''(x^4)+2(x^3)V'+2V(x^2)+2(x^3)V'+4(x^2)V-6V(x^2)=0
which equals V''(x^4)+4(x^3)V"=0
This is where I come to a dead end, any help or advice would be greatly appreciated, thank you.
 
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I assume you meant V'' x^4 + 4 x^3 V' = 0? Doesn't that simplify into a form that's very easy to solve?


Anyways, aren't you trying to solve equation (2)? You should be substituting into that.
 
isn't there another variation of parameters that can be used to find another linearly independent solution of a DE where you take the solution you find from the characterstic, multiplying it by u(x), then differentiating it and plugging it into and solving for u(x)?
 
That's what he did, except he called it V instead of u(x).
 
Ok so I'm at V''(x^4) + 4(x^3)V'=10(x^7) + 15(x^2). I then just devided all by (x^4) to get V'' alone, hence"
V'' + V'(4/x) = 10(x^3) + 15/(x^2)
I then let u=V' and u'=V'', therefore:
u' +u(4/x) = 10(x^3) + 15/(x^2), I then let P(x)=4/x and hence I(x)=x^4 after integration.
Now I have (d/dx) (x^4)u = integral of [10(x^7) + 15(x^2).dx],
hence (x^4)u= (10x^8 / 8) + 5(x^3) + C,
V'= (5x^4 / 4) + 5/x + C/(x^4) and finally
V= (x^5)/4 + 5log(x) - C/(3x^3) +D.

This is wrong and I just don't know where I went wrong. Thanks for the help so far guys.
 
Last edited:
Hurkyl said:
That's what he did, except he called it V instead of u(x).

yea but there's also the use of the wronskian which is called variation of parameters
 
Would anyone know where I went wrong above?
 
Please, anyone?
 
Illusionist said:
Please, anyone?

write it out in tex and i'll help but i really can't decypher what you've written
 

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