Solving PDF by using Fourier transform

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the partial differential equation $u_t - u_{xx} = 0$ with the initial condition $u(x,0) = e^{-x^2}$ using Fourier transforms. Participants explore the application of Fourier transforms to derive the solution and clarify the convolution property in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant applies the Fourier transform and derives $F(u)(\omega,t) = e^{-x^2} e^{-\omega^2 t}$, leading to a convolution expression for $u(x,t)$.
  • Another participant challenges the correctness of the initial approach, suggesting that the Fourier transform of $e^{-x^2}$ should be found first to establish new initial conditions.
  • A subsequent participant proposes a revised expression for the solution involving the inverse Fourier transform and questions its correctness.
  • Another participant provides a mathematical check involving an integral to support the discussion but does not provide a final solution.
  • One participant expresses confusion about their previous contributions and references the convolution theorem in the context of Fourier transforms.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct approach to solving the problem. There are competing views regarding the application of the Fourier transform and the handling of initial conditions.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved mathematical steps regarding the Fourier transform of the initial condition and the application of the convolution property, which may affect the correctness of the proposed solutions.

Markov2
Messages
149
Reaction score
0
$u_t-u_{xx}=0,$ $x\in\mathbb R,$ $t>0$ and $u(x,0)=e^{-x^2}.$

By applying Fourier transform on $t$ I have $\dfrac{\partial }{\partial t}F(u)+{{\omega }^{2}}F(u)=0,$ the solution of the latter equation is $F(u)(\omega,t)=ce^{-\omega^2t},$ now by applying the initial condition I have $F(u)(x,0)=c=e^{-x^2},$ so $F(u)(\omega,t)=e^{-x^2}e^{-\omega^2t}.$ So I use the convolution property to get $u(x,t)=\dfrac1{\sqrt{2\pi}}(e^{-x^2}*e^{-\omega^2t}).$

Is this correct?
Thanks!
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
インテグラルキラー;438 said:
$u_t-u_{xx}=0,$ $x\in\mathbb R,$ $t>0$ and $u(x,0)=e^{-x^2}.$

By applying Fourier transform on $t$ I have $\frac{\partial }{\partial t}F(u)+{{\omega }^{2}}F(u)=0,$ the solution of the latter equation is $F(u)(\omega,t)=ce^{-\omega^2t},$ now by applying the initial condition I have $F(u)(x,0)=c=e^{-x^2},$ so $F(u)(\omega,t)=e^{-x^2}e^{-\omega^2t}.$ So I use the convolution property to get $u(x,t)=\frac1{\sqrt{2\pi}}(e^{-x^2}*e^{-\omega^2t}).$

Is this correct?
Thanks!

No this is not correct.

You need to find the Fourier transform of $e^{-x^2}$ and that becomes your new initial conditions that you substitute.
 
Okay, so the solution is actually $u(x,t)=\dfrac1{\sqrt{2\pi}}(F^{-1}(e^{-x^2})*e^{-\omega^2t}),$ or is still incorrect? How to do it then?
 
Last edited:
You should check that,
$$ \frac{1}{\sqrt{4\pi t}} \int \limits_{-\infty}^{\infty} \exp \left( - \frac{x^2}{4t} \right) e^{-i\omega x}~ dx = e^{-\omega^2 t} $$

Can you write down the solution now?
 
Okay, I'm sorry, I'm a bit confused, on my post #3, does make sense the thing I wrote? I think it's not correct.
I suppose to use $F(f*g)(\xi)=\sqrt{2\pi}F(f )(\xi)\cdot F(g)(\xi).$

Thanks!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
10K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
11K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K