Can you help me solve this system of DEs with a tricky auxiliary equation?

In summary, the individual had a system of differential equations with variables x1, x2, and x3. After simplifying and using the Differentiation operator, they were left with an auxiliary equation for x2. The individual tried to factor the equation but was unable to do so and turned to the expert for help. The expert provided the factorization of the equation and explained how they obtained it. The individual expressed their surprise and gratitude for the seemingly complex solution.
  • #1
EvLer
458
0
I have this system of DEs, but after getting through all the simplifications I can't factor the auxiliary equation:

x1' = -2x1 + x2 + x3
x2' = x1 - x2 + 3x3
x3' = -x2 - 3x3

Then I eliminated all variables except for x2, using Differentiation operator.
my AE from x2 is this:

r3 + 6r2 + 12r + 12 = 0

And I'm stuck!

thank you in advance.
 
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  • #2
EvLer said:
r3 + 6r2 + 12r + 12 = 0

For what it's worth, this factors into

[tex]
\left( r + a \right) \left(r^2 + \left( 6 - a \right) r + \frac{12}{a} \right) = 0,
[/tex]

with

[tex]
a = 2 + 2^{\frac{2}{3}}
[/tex]

Regards,
George
 
  • #3
I get a different equation for x2.

I get: -(D+2)(D^2 + 4D + 5)x2 = 0
or (D^3 + 6D^2 + 13D + 10)x2 = 0
the aux has roots: -2, -2 +i, -2 - i.

We can check that the eigenvalues of
[tex] \left( \begin{array}{ccc}
-2 & 1 & 1 \\
1 & -1 & 3 \\
0 & -1 & -3
\end{array} \right) [/tex]
are -2, -2+i, -2-i

so the solutions should be linear combinations
of exp(-2t), exp(-2t)*sin(t), exp(-2t)*cos(t).
 
  • #4
How did you get that equation?
I tried eliminating x1 first, after that I have 2 equations:

x2 + (D + 3)x3 = 0
(D + 1)(D + 2)x2 - x2 - x3 - 3(D + 2)x3 = 0

so from here

x2 + (D + 3)x3 = 0
[(D + 1)(D + 2) - 1]x2 - [3(D + 2) + 1]x3 = 0

is that what you had?
because I can't get your answer.
thanks.
 
Last edited:
  • #5
starting here
x2 + (D + 3)x3 = 0
[(D + 1)(D + 2) - 1]x2 - [3(D + 2) + 1]x3 = 0

therefore
[3(D+2)+1]x2 + (D+3)[3(D+2)+1]x3 = 0
(D+3)[(D + 1)(D + 2) - 1]x2 - (D+3)[3(D + 2) + 1]x3 = 0

add those.

and some mindless algebra gives:
[3(D+2)+1 + (D+3)[(D+1)(D+2) -1]] x2 = 0;
[3D + 6+1 + (D+3)[D^2 + 3D + 1]]x2 = 0
[3D +7 + D^3 + 3D^2 + D + 3D^2 + 9D + 3]x2 = 0
[D^3 + 6D^2 + 13D + 10]x2 = 0
 
Last edited:
  • #6
argh... Ok, thanks much! I guess I just expected a nice and simple solution...
 

What is a system of differential equations?

A system of differential equations is a set of equations that describe the relationship between multiple variables and their rates of change over time. It is often used to model complex systems in physics, engineering, and other scientific fields.

Why do systems of differential equations sometimes get stuck during solving?

Systems of differential equations can get stuck during solving due to several reasons, such as incorrect initial conditions, numerical errors, or mathematical complexities. It is important to carefully check all inputs and use appropriate solving techniques to avoid getting stuck.

What are some common methods for solving systems of differential equations?

Some common methods for solving systems of differential equations include substitution, elimination, and using matrices. Numerical methods such as Euler's method and Runge-Kutta methods can also be used for solving systems.

How can I determine if a system of differential equations has a unique solution?

A system of differential equations has a unique solution if the number of equations is equal to the number of unknown variables and the initial conditions are specified. In other cases, the system may have multiple or no solutions.

What are some real-life applications of systems of differential equations?

Systems of differential equations have a wide range of applications in real-life, including modeling population growth, predicting weather patterns, analyzing electrical circuits, and studying chemical reactions. They are also used in fields such as economics, biology, and neuroscience.

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