Wave Equation with initial conditions, boundary condtions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the wave equation using D'Alembert's formula with specific initial and boundary conditions. The participants explore the implications of odd functions, where f(-x) = -f(x) and g(-x) = -g(x), leading to the conclusion that the solution u(x,t) simplifies to zero under these conditions. The conversation also addresses the extension of initial conditions to maintain the odd function property, suggesting the creation of new functions a(x) and b(x) to facilitate this process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave equations and their solutions
  • Familiarity with D'Alembert's formula for wave equations
  • Knowledge of odd and even functions in mathematics
  • Basic calculus, particularly integration techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of D'Alembert's formula in detail
  • Learn how to construct odd functions from given functions
  • Explore boundary value problems in wave equations
  • Investigate the implications of initial conditions on wave behavior
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, physics students, and engineers working with wave equations, particularly those interested in initial and boundary value problems in partial differential equations.

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So, I do not think I did this properly, but if f(-x)=-f(x), then u(-x,0)=-u(x,0), and if g(-x)=-g(x), then ut(-x,0)=-ut(x,0).

According to D`Alambert`s formula,

u(x,t)=[f(x+t)+f(x-t)]/2 + 0.5∫g(s)ds (from x-t to x+t)
so, u(0,t)=[f(t)+f(-t)]/2 + 0.5∫g(s)ds (from -t to t)

f is odd, and so is g, so the equation ends up giving zero, as required. But I don`t think that`s what we have to do. How do do I extend the initial conditions so that f(-x)=-f(x)? and the same for g(x). I know how to create an odd function, I can just let h(x)=xf(x2), then h(-x)=-h(x), but I`m not sure what I`m suppose to do.
 
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anyone?
 
Write doen D'Almberts solution, what do you get?
 
What do you mean? I thought I did write it down,
<br /> u(x,t)=\frac{1}{2}[f(x-t)+f(x+t)]+\frac{1}{2}\int_{x-t}^{x+t} g(s)ds<br />
 
Hm, I think I got it, I`ll try to post it soon.
 
If you've done it, post it otherwise we can go from there. My first thought would be to define two new functions a,b, such that:
<br /> a(x)=\left\{\begin{array}{cc}<br /> f(x) &amp; x\geqslant 0 \\<br /> -f(x) &amp; x&lt;0<br /> \end{array}\right.<br />
Likewise fot b and work from there.
 

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