1st Order Differential Equation - Power Series Method

In summary, the conversation discussed finding a solution for a differential equation, specifically the equation ##x = x_{HOM} + x_{Inhom}##. The solution was simplified by writing ##sin(t)## as ##\sum_{0}^{\infty}\frac{(-1)^n t^{2n+1}}{(2n+1)!}## and considering solutions for which the sum is always equal to zero. However, it was mentioned that the solution ##c_0 = -t \cdot sin(t)## may not be correct.
  • #1
NicolaiTheDane
100
10

Homework Statement


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The Attempt at a Solution


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I have deliberately made several obvious steps, because I keep ending up here. However I have no idea what to do from here. I thought about the fact, that differential equations have the solution ##x = x_{HOM} + x_{Inhom}##, but the ##x_{HOM}## ends up the same, except equal 0, which suggests that the only solution is ##c_0 = -t \cdot sin(t)##. as all ##c_n=0, n \geq 1, t \in (0,\infty)##. But that can't be right, because that actually constitute a solution?
 

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  • #2
try writing ##sin(t)## as ##\sum_{0}^{\infty}\frac{(-1)^n t^{2n+1}}{(2n+1)!}##, simplify the expression and then try to find solutions for which the sum is always going to equal to zero
 

FAQ: 1st Order Differential Equation - Power Series Method

What is the Power Series Method for solving 1st Order Differential Equations?

The Power Series Method is a technique used to solve 1st Order Differential Equations that cannot be solved by traditional methods. It involves expressing the solution as a series of terms, with each term containing increasingly higher powers of the independent variable.

When is the Power Series Method typically used?

The Power Series Method is typically used when the coefficients in the differential equation are not constant or are difficult to work with. It is also useful when trying to find a general solution to a differential equation, as it can produce a series that converges to the solution for a wide range of initial conditions.

What are the steps involved in using the Power Series Method for solving a 1st Order Differential Equation?

The steps for using the Power Series Method are as follows:
1. Assume the solution is in the form of a power series.
2. Substitute the power series into the differential equation and equate coefficients of like powers of the independent variable.
3. Solve for the coefficients by setting up a system of equations.
4. Use the initial conditions to determine the values of the coefficients.
5. Substitute the coefficients back into the power series to obtain the final solution.

What are the advantages of using the Power Series Method?

The Power Series Method is advantageous because it can be used to solve a wide range of 1st Order Differential Equations, including those that cannot be solved by traditional methods. It also provides a general solution that can be used for different initial conditions. Additionally, it allows for easy approximation of the solution by using only a finite number of terms in the series.

Are there any limitations or drawbacks to using the Power Series Method?

There are a few limitations to using the Power Series Method. It requires a certain level of mathematical knowledge and understanding to set up and solve the system of equations. It also may not work for all types of 1st Order Differential Equations, particularly those with singularities or discontinuities. Additionally, the series may not converge for certain initial conditions, making the solution invalid in those cases.

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