Solving IVP $y''-y=0$ with $y_1,y_2$

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the initial value problem (IVP) for the differential equation $y'' - y = 0$ using proposed solutions $y_1(t) = e^t$ and $y_2(t) = \cosh{t}$. Participants explore various methods for solving the equation, including the method of characteristics and the method of undetermined coefficients.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a solution approach using $y_1(t) = e^t$ and $y_2(t) = \cosh{t}$, but expresses uncertainty about the correctness of the method.
  • Another participant argues that the initial method does not work for second-degree equations and suggests using the method of characteristics, providing the homogeneous solution $y_h = A e^{t} + B e^{-t}$.
  • A follow-up question seeks clarification on whether the expression $\frac{1}{2} ( e^{t} + e^{-t} )$ can be equated to the homogeneous solution.
  • Further clarification is provided that if a term like $Ae^{t}$ is present in the homogeneous solution, it cannot appear in the particular solution, suggesting the use of $te^{t}$ or higher powers instead.
  • Another participant discusses the manipulation of constants in the context of the solutions, indicating how constants can be absorbed into new variables.
  • A participant acknowledges a misunderstanding of the problem and corrects their earlier statement.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriate methods for solving the IVP, with no consensus reached on the best approach. Some participants challenge the initial method proposed, while others provide alternative suggestions without agreement on a definitive solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully agree on the applicability of the methods discussed, and there are unresolved aspects regarding the choice of particular solutions and the handling of terms in the homogeneous solution.

karush
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$\tiny{b.1.3.7}$
Solve IVP
$y''-y=0;\quad y_1(t)=e^t,\quad y_2(t)=\cosh{t}$
$\begin{array}{lll}
&\exp\left(\int \, dx\right)= e^x\\
& e^x(y''-y)=0\\
& e^x-e^x=0\\ \\
&y_1(x)=e^x\\
&(e^x)''-(e^x)=0\\
&(e^x)-(e^x)=0\\ \\

&y_2(x)=\cosh{x}\\
&(\cosh{x})''-(\cosh{x})=0\\
\end{array}$

ok there was no book answer so hopefully went in right direction so suggestions...:unsure:
 
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That method doesn't work for second degree equations. Use the method of characteristics.

We have y'' - y = 0. So write [math]m^2 - 1 = 0[/math]. This has solutions m = -1, 1. Thus the homogeneous solution will be
[math]y_h = A e^{1 \cdot t} + B e^{-1 \cdot t}[/math]

To fit the particular solution you can look at the method of undetermined coefficients. Hint: Let [math]cosh(t) = \dfrac{1}{2} ( e^{t} + e^{-t} )[/math].

-Dan
 
topsquark said:
That method doesn't work for second degree equations. Use the method of characteristics.

We have y'' - y = 0. So write [math]m^2 - 1 = 0[/math]. This has solutions m = -1, 1. Thus the homogeneous solution will be
[math]y_h = A e^{1 \cdot t} + B e^{-1 \cdot t}[/math]

To fit the particular solution you can look at the method of undetermined coefficients. Hint: Let [math]cosh(t) = \dfrac{1}{2} ( e^{t} + e^{-t} )[/math].

-Dan

so we can do this?
$\dfrac{1}{2} ( e^{t} + e^{-t} )=A e^{1 \cdot t} + B e^{-1 \cdot t}$
 
Hmmm... Apparently the whole method isn't contained in what I quoted.

If you have a term [math]Ae^{t}[/math] in [math]y_h[/math] then you can't have that term in [math]y_p[/math]. (Think about it... If you use [math]e^t[/math] in your particular solution then it will just give 0 because it is already in the homogeneous solution.) So instead of using [math]e^t[/math] try [math]te^t[/math]. If that doesn't work or if you need it (in this case you will) try [math]t^2 e^t[/math], etc.

-Dan
 
$Ae^{1- t}= Ae^1e^{-t}$ and the constant, e, can be "absorbed" into "A"; $A'= Ae$ so $Ae^{1- t}= A'e^{-t}$.
Similarly $Be^{1- t}= B'e^{-t}$ with $B'= Be$.

And, of course those can be combined: $A'e^{-t}+ B'e^{-t}= Ce^{-t}$ with C= A'+ B'
 

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