# The generalized Lambert W-function

1. Feb 10, 2005

### saltydog

Can anyone here help me derive the generalized Lambert function? I'm working on a solution for an ODE from the homework group which involves this function. This is what I have so far:

The W-function is defined as the inverse of the following:

$$f(x)=xe^x=y$$

then:

$$f^{-1}(y)=x=W(y)$$

with W being the Lambert W-function for $y>-e^{-1}$

I need help showing the following:

If:

$$g(x)=x^2e^x=y$$

then:

$$g^{-1}(y)=2W(\frac{\sqrt y}{2})$$

and in general if:

$$h(x)=x^ne^x=y$$

then:

$$h^{-1}(y)=nW(\frac{y^\frac{1}{n}}{n})$$

Thanks,
Salty

2. Feb 10, 2005

### StatusX

you need to get one side into the form:

$$f(x) e^{f(x)}$$

then take the W of both sides, which will leave f(x) here.

3. Feb 10, 2005

### dextercioby

Where did you come up with that factor "n" in front of the W function...?

Daniel.

4. Feb 10, 2005

### saltydog

Mathematica reports the results as I stated but I'd like to understand how it's arriving at it. I've checked it with real numbers (I don't have a support contract and they don't like me bothering them).

5. Feb 10, 2005

### saltydog

Thanks StatusX. I don't see that but will try and work with that logic in the morning.

Salty

6. Feb 10, 2005

### dextercioby

It's straightforward.
$$x^{n}e^{x}=y \Rightarrow xe^{\frac{x}{n}}=y^{\frac{1}{n}}\Rightarrow \frac{x}{n}e^{\frac{x}{n}}=\frac{y^{\frac{1}{n}}}{n}$$

Apply the W (Lambert function) on the last equality and u'll get
$$\frac{x}{n}=W(\frac{y^{\frac{1}{n}}}{n}) \Rightarrow x=n W(\frac{y^{\frac{1}{n}}}{n})$$

which is the inverse function of the one you started with.

Daniel.

7. Feb 11, 2005

### saltydog

Yep, would not have figured that on my own. I mean, it took me a while to even see what you were doing. Thanks Daniel.
I'll follow-up with a report (and plot) in the homework section for this problem. I know they're long-gone to other things but I tell you what, they missin' out (and they wouldn't like me as their teacher because I'd make them do this extra stuf for at least some of the problems).

Salty