Using Lie Groups to Solve & Understand First Order ODE's

Click For Summary
The discussion focuses on the application of Lie groups to solve first-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and the challenges in understanding this approach. Participants emphasize the significance of symmetry analysis in reducing the order of ODEs and highlight the lack of systematic methods for finding symmetries in first-order equations. Several recommended texts, including works by Peter Hydon and Hans Stephani, are suggested for self-study, with a preference for a structured reading approach. The conversation also touches on the potential of Lie groups in connecting various ODE-solving techniques and their relevance to physical problems, such as those described by Noether's theorem. Overall, the thread serves as a platform for sharing resources and insights on mastering Lie group theory in the context of differential equations.
  • #31
bolbteppa said:
In other words it does indeed seem the general theorem can be confirmed by basic calculus. The wikipedia definition section for the exponential map seems to confirm this.

I find no demonstration of the general result by ordinary calculus in that article. I don't even find a precise statement of the result.

I think a result for matrix groups can be shown by ordinary calculus because matrix groups are special. In a matrix group x1 = T_x(x,y,\alpha)) is a linear function in x and y. Hence higher order partial derivatives of x_1 with respect to x or y vanish.

Problem 2.2 in Emmanuel p 17 uses the example of the group defined by
x_1 = (x^2 + \alpha x y)^{1/2}
y_1 = \frac{xy}{(x^2 + \alpha x y)^{1/2}}

It would interesting to discuss the specifics of expanding a function of (x_1,y_1) in Taylor series.

It won't do any good to rant at me about how the result is obvious from differential geometry. As I said, I'm perfectly willing to consider that the Taylor expansion in terms of U can only be defined and proven by using concepts from differential geometry. However, for the time being, I'm interested in what can be done with ordinary calculus. People with other interests should feel free to post about them.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #33
Last edited by a moderator:

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
997
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K