Finding Solutions for Non-Linear Equations and ODEs in Math

  • Thread starter eljose
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation discusses the existence of a function, denoted as f(x), that satisfies a given differential or integral equation. It is mentioned that there are "existence and uniqueness theorems" that assert the existence of solutions to certain problems, but it is not necessarily true that every non-linear differential or integral equation has a solution. The possibility of using a numerical method to approximate a solution is also mentioned, but it is highlighted that this is not an exact solution and may not always be possible.
  • #1
eljose
492
0
Let,s suppose I'm asked to find a function with certain properties in math, let's call this function f(x), my question is if i find that f(x) must satisfy a certain differential or integral equation let's say:

[tex] a(x)f''+b(x)(f')^2 + c(x)tan(f) = 0 [/tex] (NOn- linear ODE )

[tex] x+ f(x)= \int_a ^ b dy log(y^2 +f(x) ) [/tex] (Non-linear equation)

The question is...does this mean that the function f(x) as a solution of an ODE or a Non-linear integral equation necessarily exist?...:confused: :confused:
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I'm not sure I understand your question. If you mean you have actually have found a function satisfying a given equation, then, yes, it exists!

If you mean you have been asked to find a function satisfying a given equation, then, no, it is not necessarily true that such a function exists. (There are a variety of "existence and uniqueness theorems" that assert that such-and-such problems have solutions. I don't know of any that assert that every non-linear differential equation or every non-linear integral equation has a solution, A perfectly good answer to such a question is "no such function exists" and then, of course, proving there is no such function. Of course, actually finding the function is itself proof that such a function does exist!
 
  • #3
but the question (from my point of view) would be:

-How could you know that a function satisfying:

[tex] x+ f(x) = \int_a ^b dy Log (y^2 +f(x)) [/tex] exist?...well the question is that you can always use a "Numerical method" ( integration by quadratures, and all that) so you can "draw" a picture of how the function would look like , and you can check that the function exists and it's Non-zero.
 
  • #4
Except that a numerical solution is at best "approximate". And remember that the approximation is saying that the function given by the numerical solution approximately satisfies the equation. It is quite possible that, even if an equation has an approximate numerical solution, there is no exact solution.
 
  • #5
eljose said:
but the question (from my point of view) would be:

-How could you know that a function satisfying:

[tex] x+ f(x) = \int_a ^b dy Log (y^2 +f(x)) [/tex] exist?...well the question is that you can always use a "Numerical method" ( integration by quadratures, and all that) so you can "draw" a picture of how the function would look like , and you can check that the function exists and it's Non-zero.

It may be useful the following:

[tex] \int dy Log(y^2 + f(x)) = y Log(y^2 + f(x)) - 2 \int dy \frac{y^2}{y^2 + f(x)} [/tex]

(by parts).
 

FAQ: Finding Solutions for Non-Linear Equations and ODEs in Math

What are non-linear equations and ODEs?

Non-linear equations are mathematical equations that do not follow a straight line when graphed. They involve variables raised to powers, such as x², and can also include trigonometric functions and logarithms. ODEs, or ordinary differential equations, are equations that involve derivatives of a function with respect to one or more independent variables.

Why is it important to find solutions for non-linear equations and ODEs?

Non-linear equations and ODEs are used in many areas of science and engineering to model complex systems and phenomena. Finding solutions to these equations allows us to gain a better understanding of these systems and make predictions about their behavior.

What techniques are used to solve non-linear equations and ODEs?

There are various techniques for solving non-linear equations and ODEs, such as substitution, elimination, and graphical methods. However, for more complex equations, numerical methods such as Euler's method or Runge-Kutta methods may be used.

Can non-linear equations and ODEs have multiple solutions?

Yes, non-linear equations and ODEs can have multiple solutions. In fact, some equations may have an infinite number of solutions. It is important to carefully analyze the equations and their solutions to determine which solutions are relevant and meaningful in a given context.

Are there any real-world applications for solving non-linear equations and ODEs?

Yes, there are many real-world applications for solving non-linear equations and ODEs. Some examples include predicting population growth, modeling chemical reactions, and studying the behavior of electrical circuits. These equations are also used in fields such as physics, biology, economics, and engineering.

Similar threads

Back
Top