Finding the Initial Point for Runge Kutta 4th Order

In summary, the conversation discusses using the Runge Kutta 4th order method to find points between two given points A and B. The question is how to choose the initial point, with the suggestion to start at A. There is also a mention of a differential equation and finding points between two given points in a boundary problem. It is mentioned that there is no specific formula for finding the initial point that will yield a solution passing through both A and B, but it is possible to approximate B by trying different values of A. Additionally, if the differential equation is not singular at B, a backward solution from B to A can be attempted.
  • #1
sos 2011
2
0
Hi guys

I have two points A and B (in 2 dimensions) and want to use runge kutta 4th order to give me points between these two points starting from A __> B (NOT B___> A). How can I choose the initial point then.

Cheers,:smile:
 
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  • #2
Perhaps I am misunderstanding but if you want a sequence of points going from A to B, then you would start at A. Take your initial point to be A.
 
  • #3
If I have 3 points A,B,C and want to know the points between A and B, how can I force the runge kutta to go from A to B not anywhere? I think there is a relation formula can connect A and B and consider it as an initial point. Any idea?
 
  • #4
I don't quite understand what you are asking. Are you saying you have an interval
[A, B]
and you want to fill in the graph between these x values?

I don't see how your saying a Runge Kutta method would go "anywhere"? It has to follow the differential equations you have.

EDIT:
If I remember correctly, to apply Runge Kutta you start with the location of the given initial condition, and then iterate from there.
 
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  • #5
I think the OP is asking about a boundary problem, such that the solution is "fixed" not only at the initial point A but also at the "boundary point" B. Generally speaking there is no numerical "formula" to ensure that an initial point A(i) is going to yield the solution that also goes through B. A useful theorem states that the mapping of the initial points A(1), A(2), ... to the corresponding sequence of points B(1), B(2), ... near B is continuous, so you should be able to approximate B to a high degree of precision by trying out different values of A. Also, if your diff. eq. is not singular at B then you can try a backward solution from B to A.
 
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FAQ: Finding the Initial Point for Runge Kutta 4th Order

What is the purpose of finding the initial point for Runge Kutta 4th Order?

The initial point for Runge Kutta 4th Order is used to determine the starting point for the numerical integration process. It is crucial for accurately solving differential equations using this method.

How is the initial point calculated for Runge Kutta 4th Order?

The initial point is typically given in the form of initial values for the differential equation. These values are then used in the algorithm to calculate the solution at the starting point.

Can a different initial point be used for Runge Kutta 4th Order?

Yes, a different initial point can be used as long as it is within the range of the differential equation and follows the same format as the initial values provided in the algorithm.

Is finding the initial point necessary for all differential equations?

No, not all differential equations require the use of an initial point for Runge Kutta 4th Order. Some equations may have specific conditions or can be solved without the use of numerical methods.

How does the accuracy of the initial point affect the solution for Runge Kutta 4th Order?

The accuracy of the initial point is crucial for obtaining an accurate solution for Runge Kutta 4th Order. If the initial point is too far from the actual solution, it can lead to significant errors in the final result.

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