Can the Cauchy-Kovalewskaya Theorem Predict Solution Existence in All Cases?

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In summary, the conversation discussed a well-known example that shows the importance of satisfying the conditions of the Cauchy-Kovalewskaya theorem in order for a solution to exist. It also introduced a Banach space and a theorem on the existence of solutions to initial value problems in this space. It concluded with a brief remark on the significance of this example.
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wrobel
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Just a simple observation, hope it would be interesting.

This example is very well known. It shows that if the conditions of the Cauchy-Kovalewskaya theorem are not satisfied then the solution is not obliged to exist.
Consider an initial value problem
$$u_t=u_{zz},\quad u(t=0,z)=\frac{1}{1+z^2},\quad t,z\in\mathbb{C}.$$ Kowalewskaya proved that this problem does not have a solution ##u(t,z)## which is an analytic function at the point ##t=0,\quad z=0##.

Nevertheless consider a Banach space
$$X=\Big\{v=\sum_{k=0}^\infty v_kz^k\mid \|v\|=\sup_{k}\{k! |v_k|\}<\infty\Big\}.$$ This is a subspace of the space of entire functions.

Theorem. The following IVP
$$u_t=u_{zz},\quad u(t=0,z)=\hat u(z)=\sum_{k=0}^\infty\hat u_kz^k\in X\qquad (*)$$ has a unique solution
$$u\in C^1(\mathbb{R},X).$$

Indeed, substitute ##u(t,z)=\sum_{k=0}^\infty u_k(t)z^k## to (*) and have
$$\dot u_k=(k+2)(k+1)u_{k+2},\quad u_k(0)=\hat u_k,\quad k=0,1,2...$$
This is an initial value problem for the infinite system of ODE. After a change of variables ##u_k=\frac{w_k}{k!}## this system takes the form
$$\dot w_k=w_{k+2},\quad w_k(0)=k! \hat u_k.$$
By the standard existence theorem for ODE this IVP has a solution ##\{w_k(t)\}\in C^1(\mathbb{R},\ell_\infty)##.
That is all :)
 
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Thank you for sharing this interesting example! It is a great illustration of the Cauchy-Kovalewskaya theorem and the importance of understanding the conditions for the existence of solutions to initial value problems. It also highlights the usefulness of Banach spaces in the study of ODEs and PDEs. I will definitely keep this example in mind when teaching these concepts in the future.
 

FAQ: Can the Cauchy-Kovalewskaya Theorem Predict Solution Existence in All Cases?

What is "The Kowalewskaya example"?

The Kowalewskaya example, also known as the Kowalewski top, is a classic example in the field of mechanics that demonstrates the possibility of a non-integrable system with a constant of motion. It was first discovered by Russian mathematician Sofia Kovalevskaya in the late 19th century.

What is the significance of "The Kowalewskaya example" in the field of mechanics?

The Kowalewskaya example is significant because it was the first known example of a non-integrable system with a constant of motion. This challenged the widely accepted belief at the time that all systems with a constant of motion were integrable. It also paved the way for further research and discoveries in the field of mechanics.

How does "The Kowalewskaya example" demonstrate a non-integrable system?

The Kowalewskaya example consists of a rigid body rotating around a fixed point under the influence of gravity. While it has a constant of motion, the system is not integrable because it cannot be solved using traditional methods of integration. This is due to the presence of a term in the equations of motion that cannot be expressed in terms of the initial conditions.

What are the applications of "The Kowalewskaya example" in other fields of science?

The Kowalewskaya example has been used in various fields of science, including physics, mathematics, and even astronomy. It has been used to study the dynamics of celestial bodies, the stability of planetary systems, and the behavior of fluids in rotating containers. It has also been used as a model for studying chaotic systems and their behavior.

How has "The Kowalewskaya example" influenced the development of modern mechanics?

The Kowalewskaya example has had a significant impact on the development of modern mechanics. It challenged traditional theories and led to the development of new techniques for studying non-integrable systems. It also opened up new avenues for research and has been a source of inspiration for many scientists in the field. The example continues to be studied and applied in various areas of mechanics today.

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