What is the missing term in the differential equation?

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter jacobrhcp
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Ode
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a specific non-linear differential equation and the challenges associated with finding its exact solution. Participants explore potential methods for solving the equation, including the use of software tools and analytical techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes a non-linear differential equation and expresses difficulty in finding an exact solution using Mathematica, which runs indefinitely without yielding results.
  • Another participant asserts that there is no general algorithm for finding exact solutions to non-linear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and suggests that series solution techniques might be more appropriate for obtaining analytical results.
  • A participant expresses disappointment at the prospect of not finding a closed-form solution, indicating an expectation that one might exist.
  • Another participant points out a derivative relationship involving the equation, suggesting it may have some utility, though they are uncertain how to apply it.
  • One participant claims that a term is missing in the equation, implying that this could be a factor in the difficulty of finding a solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the complexity of finding an exact solution to the differential equation, with some expressing skepticism about the possibility of a closed-form solution. However, there is disagreement regarding the implications of the missing term and its relevance to the solution process.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the limitations of existing methods for solving non-linear ODEs, including the potential need for series solutions and the lack of a straightforward algorithm for exact solutions. The discussion also highlights the dependence on specific parameters and the structure of the equation.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying differential equations, particularly non-linear ODEs, as well as individuals seeking to understand the challenges and methodologies involved in finding solutions to complex mathematical problems.

jacobrhcp
Messages
164
Reaction score
0
Given the following differential equation:

\frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{\sigma y(\alpha x^{\alpha-1}y^{\beta}-\delta-\rho)}{x^\alpha y^\beta-\delta x-y}<br />
and starting condition x(0)=x0 (=3, for instance)

and these parameters \alpha = 0.2; \beta = 0.1; \rho = 0.014; \delta = 0.05; b = 0.5; \sigma = 0.5;

I want to find an exact solution. What I have tried so far is using the Mathematica tool DSolve, but when executed, Mathematica kept running for over 20 minutes without giving an answer.

I don't see any smart substitution or a way to make separation of variables possible. Do you see any? I'm not asking for a complete solution or anything, but if you know a good book or manual where I can learn how to solve this, that's fine too.

Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
There is no algorithm for finding the exact solution of a non-linear ODE (and most of them do not have exact solutions). Series solution techniques may be helpful if what you're interested in is an analytical result, but the bottom line is that you are unlikely to be able to find an exact solution in closed form to this equation.
 
=( that's unfortunate. I really expected there to be one for some reason. Thanks for your help.
 
The fact that ##d/dx(x^\alpha y^\beta - \delta x) = \alpha x^{\alpha-1}y^\beta - \delta## has got to be good for something - but it's not obvious (to me) how to use it.
 
Well, if y is a function of x, then you are missing a term in that equation.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K