Undetermined coefficients help

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the differential equation y" + y = x*cos(x) - cos(x) using the method of undetermined coefficients. Participants emphasize the need to separate the particular solution yp into two parts due to the presence of a product of functions. The importance of first finding the homogeneous solution is also highlighted, as it is crucial for determining the general solution of the equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential equations, specifically second-order linear equations.
  • Familiarity with the method of undetermined coefficients.
  • Knowledge of homogeneous and particular solutions in differential equations.
  • Basic calculus, particularly differentiation of products of functions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of undetermined coefficients in detail.
  • Learn how to find homogeneous solutions for second-order linear differential equations.
  • Explore techniques for differentiating products of functions in calculus.
  • Review examples of solving differential equations with non-homogeneous terms.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying differential equations, educators teaching calculus, and anyone seeking to improve their problem-solving skills in advanced mathematics.

brungus
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Hi, new here, I am looking for some help on this homework problem. pretty sure you need to separate yp into 2 parts?

anyways, use method of undetermined coeff. to solve

y" + y = x*cos(x) - cos(x)

thanks.
 
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brungus said:
Hi, new here, I am looking for some help on this homework problem. pretty sure you need to separate yp into 2 parts?

anyways, use method of undetermined coeff. to solve

y" + y = x*cos(x) - cos(x)

thanks.
Hi brungus and welcome to PF,

I'm assuming that you've found the homogeneous solution. For the particular solution, notice that we have a product of two functions of x. How does one usually differentiate a product of two functions?

Also for future reference, we have Homework Forums where you can post all your textbook questions :smile:.
 
Why have you not shown any work? In particular, what do you get for the general solution to the corresponding homogeneous equation?
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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