Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around verifying whether the functions \( U_1(x, y) = \cos(x) \cosh(y) \) and \( U_2(x, y) = \ln(x^2 + y^2) \) are solutions to the partial differential equation \( U_{xx} + U_{yy} = 0 \). Participants explore the calculations of the second derivatives and their implications for the solutions of the PDE.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation
- Mathematical reasoning
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants express uncertainty about how to derive the second derivatives for \( U_1 \) and ask for clarification on the process.
- Others provide calculations for the first and second derivatives of \( U_1 \), noting that \( U_{1xx} = -\cos(x) \cosh(y) \) and \( U_{1yy} = \cos(x) \cosh(y) \), leading to a cancellation in the equation.
- Some participants suggest that when calculating \( U_{xx} \), one can treat \( \cosh(y) \) as a constant during differentiation with respect to \( x \).
- For \( U_2 \), participants present calculations showing \( U_{2xx} = -\frac{2(x^2 - y^2)}{(x^2 + y^2)^2} \) and \( U_{2yy} = \frac{2(x^2 - y^2)}{(x^2 + y^2)^2} \), concluding that \( U_2 \) satisfies the PDE.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the calculations for \( U_2 \) being a solution to the PDE, while there is some uncertainty and lack of consensus regarding the verification process for \( U_1 \).
Contextual Notes
Some participants express confusion about the differentiation process and the treatment of constants, indicating potential gaps in understanding the application of differentiation rules in the context of PDEs.