Solving the Heat Equation for $u(x,t)$

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the heat equation for the function \( u(x,t) \) with specified boundary and initial conditions. The problem involves separating variables and finding coefficients for an infinite series representation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the separation of variables approach and the derivation of coefficients for the series solution. There is a focus on the initial condition and its implications for the integration process.

Discussion Status

Some participants are clarifying the initial conditions and the implications of their interpretations. There is acknowledgment of the complexity involved in the integration required for the solution, indicating a productive exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating potential confusion regarding the initial condition and its representation, which may affect the subsequent calculations. The discussion reflects the need for careful consideration of terms in the context of the heat equation.

stunner5000pt
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[tex]\frac{\partial u}{\partial t} - k \frac{\partial^2 u}{\partial x^2} = 0[/tex]
for 0 <x < pi, t> 0

[itex]u(0,t) = u(\pi,t) = 0[/itex]
[itex]u(x,0) = x (\pi - x)[/itex]

OK i know the boring part of getting u(x,t) = X(x) T(t)
the infinite series part is hard part
the coefficient [tex]c_{n} = \frac{2}{\pi} \int_{0}^{\pi} \sin(n(\pi -x)) \sin(nx) = \frac{-2}{\pi} \left(\frac{-1 + (-1)^n}{n}\right) \sin(nx)[/tex]
the -1^n is from the Cos n pi term taht would coem from the integration

thus n must be odd
[tex]c_{n} = \frac{4}{\pi} \frac{1}{2n-1} \sin(nx)[/tex]
is this good so far?
 
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I am confused with your IC's. Is it u(x,0) = x(pi - x) or sin(n(pi - x))?
 
x(pi -x ) is the initial condition
and i think i have mistaken this for X(pi -x)
which is not the same thing
 
Ok, so if x(pi -x) is your IC, then you will have to integrals to do. xpi* sin(nx)
and x^2 sin (nx). Its a bit more involved than the last one.

- harsh
 

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