FT to solve 2nd order ODE; only one solution

In summary, when using a Fourier transform to solve a simple 2nd order ODE, only one solution is obtained. This is because the other solutions with non-zero C and D values are lost when taking the derivatives and the Fourier transform is only operating on the C=D=0 solution. Therefore, it is not surprising that only one solution is obtained using this method.
  • #1
bdforbes
152
0
If I solve a simple 2nd order ODE using a Fourier transform, I only get one solution. E.g.:
[tex] \frac{d^2f}{dx^2}=\delta [/tex]
[tex] (2\pi ik)^2\tilde{f}=1 [/tex]
[tex] \tilde{f}=\frac{1}{(2\pi ik)^2} [/tex]
[tex] f = \frac{1}{2}xsgn(x) [/tex]

However, the general solution is

[tex] f = \frac{1}{2}xsgn(x) + Cx + D [/tex]

Why do I only get one of the solutions? Are the solutions with C and D non-zero not also valid distributions whose second derivatives are the delta distribution?
 
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  • #2
My current thinking on this is that we could start with
[tex] f=\frac{1}{2}xsgn(x) + x + 1 [/tex]
but as soon as we take the derivatives, we lose the last two terms, and the Fourier transform is then effectively operating on the C=D=0 solution. So it's not really surprising that we only get one solution from the Fourier transform method.
 

FAQ: FT to solve 2nd order ODE; only one solution

What is a 2nd order ODE?

A 2nd order ordinary differential equation (ODE) is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between a function and its derivatives up to the second order.

What does it mean to solve a 2nd order ODE?

Solving a 2nd order ODE means finding a mathematical expression that describes the function that satisfies the given equation and its initial conditions.

How can FT be used to solve a 2nd order ODE?

The Fourier transform (FT) can be used to transform a 2nd order ODE into an algebraic equation, which can then be solved using standard methods.

Why is there only one solution when using FT to solve a 2nd order ODE?

This is because the FT of a 2nd order ODE is unique and invertible, meaning it can be transformed back into the original solution. Therefore, there can only be one solution.

Are there any limitations to using FT to solve 2nd order ODEs?

Yes, the FT method may not work for all types of 2nd order ODEs and may only be applicable to certain classes of equations. Additionally, the solution may not always be easily interpretable in terms of the original physical problem.

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