What is the solution to the boundary value problem using Green's Theorem?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a boundary value problem involving the Laplace operator, specifically \((\Delta u)(x,y) = 0\) within a domain \(D\) bounded by a closed curve \(C\). Participants are exploring the implications of Green's Theorem in proving that every solution \(u\) is a constant function under the given boundary conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are analyzing the application of Green's Theorem to the problem, questioning the validity of certain terms in the theorem and their implications. There is discussion about the relationship between the Laplacian and the gradient, as well as the consequences of integrating certain expressions resulting in zero.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing insights and corrections to each other's reasoning. Some have suggested that certain terms in the equations are zero, prompting further exploration of what this means for the solution. There is recognition that the gradient must be zero, but uncertainty remains about the next steps to conclude that \(u\) is constant.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of the problem's boundary conditions and the definitions involved in Green's Theorem. There is an emphasis on ensuring the mathematical rigor of their arguments without jumping to conclusions.

stunner5000pt
Messages
1,447
Reaction score
5
Let D be a domain inside a simple closed curve C in R2. Consider the boundary value problem
[tex](\Delta u)(x,y) = 0, \ (x,y) \in D, \\ \frac{\partial u}{\partial n} (x,y) = 0 , \ (x,y) \in C.[/tex]

where n is the outward unit normal on C. Use Green's Theorem to prove taht every solution u is a constant.

and yes its DELTA u not nabla u .
i know that Green's theorem is something lik this
[tex]\int \int _{D} u \nabla^2 u dx dy = \oint_{C} u \frac{\partial u}{\partial n} ds - \int \int_{D} |grad u|^2 dxdy[/tex]

so cna i do this
[tex]\int \int_{D} u \Delta u dx dy = \oint_{C} u \frac{\partial u}{\partial n} ds - \int \int_{D} |\nabla u|^2 dx dy[/tex]
i mean isn't [tex]\Delta u = \nabla^2 u = \frac{\partial^2 u}{\partial x^2} + \frac{\partial^2 u}{\partial y^2}[/tex] isn't that true??

if that s true then moving on
[tex]\oint_{C} u \frac{\partial u}{\partial n} ds = 0[/tex] because du/dn = 0 and sinve it is definite integration of a constant the answer is zero
so all that we're left with is
[tex]\int \int_{D} u \Delta u dx dy = - \int \int_{D} |\nabla u|^2 dx dy[/tex]
if i differentiate on both sides it yields
[tex]u \Delta u \displaystyle{|_{D}} = |\nabla^2 u|[/tex]
i m not sure how to proceed from here...
how would one figure out whether u is constnat?
Please help! Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You've done too much work already. Look at your very first equation, the statement of Green's Theorem. Two of the terms in this equation are zero, why? What does that imply about the third term and why?
 
well i can see why
[tex]\oint_{C} u \frac{\partial u}{\partial n} ds = 0[/tex]
because du/dn = 0 and sinve it is definite integration of a constant the answer is zero

also from the boundary values that [itex](\Delta u) (x,y) = 0[/itex]
so then [tex]\int \int _{D} u \nabla^2 u dx dy = 0[/tex] once again because of the definite integration

so then
[tex]\int \int_{D} |grad u|^2 dxdy =0[/tex]
so if one differentiates on both sides
[tex](\nabla u) \displaystyle{|_{D}} = 0[/tex]
integrate both sides and yield u as some constnat value C.
Was that the right way?
 
You're close. You have everything except the last bit, you can't just differentiate a double integral like that. However, it is possible to conclude that the gradient must be zero. Hint: if you integrate a positive definite integrand over some region and get zero, then what must the integrand have been?
 
i see...

if you definite integrate and you get zero then the integrand musth ave been zero. Thus in this case the gradient is zero. WEll ok a zero gradient measn a maximum of the function... but then uhh
not usre what to do
 

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K