Initial and boundary value problem

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the solution to an initial and boundary value problem involving the equations $u_t(x,t)-u_{xx}(x,t)=0$, $u_x(0,t)=0$, and $u(x,0)=x^2$. The solution involves finding values for $\lambda$ and $\beta$, and then using them to solve for $X(x)$ and $T(t)$. The conversation then raises a question about writing $\beta$ in terms of $n$ and suggests continuing with the solution.
  • #1
evinda
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Hello! (Wave)

I want to find the solution of the following initial and boundary value problem:

$$u_t(x,t)-u_{xx}(x,t)=0, x>0, t>0 \\ u_x(0,t)=0, t>0, \\ u(x,0)=x^2, x>0.$$I have done the following so far:

$$u(x,t)=X(x) T(t)$$

$$u_t(x,t)=u_{xx}(x,t) \Rightarrow \frac{T'(t)}{T(t)}=\frac{X''(x)}{X(x)}=-\lambda$$

$$u_x(0,t)=0 \Rightarrow X'(0)=0$$

Then we have the following two problems:$$\left\{\begin{matrix}
X''(x)+\lambda X(x)=0\\
X'(0)=0
\end{matrix}\right.$$

and

$$\left\{\begin{matrix}
T'(t)+\lambda T(t)=0
\end{matrix}\right.$$We have that $\lambda=\beta^2$ for some $\beta>0$.

So $X''(x)+\beta^2 X(x)=0 \Rightarrow X(x)=C \sin{(\beta x)}+D \cos{(\beta x)}$.

$X'(0)=0 \Rightarrow C=0$.

So $X(x)=D \cos{(\beta x)}$.

But don't we have to write $\beta$ in respect to $n$ ? (Thinking)

How could we do so? Or have I done something wrong?
 
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  • #2
evinda said:
But don't we have to write $\beta$ in respect to $n$ ?

How could we do so? Or have I done something wrong?

Hey evinda!

What is $n$?
Doesn't the solution for X hold for any $\beta$?
Perhaps we should just continue? (Wondering)
 

FAQ: Initial and boundary value problem

What is an initial value problem?

An initial value problem is a type of differential equation where the value of the dependent variable is known at a specific initial point, and the goal is to find the function that satisfies the equation and passes through that point.

What is a boundary value problem?

A boundary value problem is a type of differential equation where the solution is required to satisfy the equation at multiple specified points, known as boundary conditions. These conditions can be either specified values of the dependent variable or its derivatives.

What is the difference between an initial value problem and a boundary value problem?

The main difference between an initial value problem and a boundary value problem is the number of conditions that need to be satisfied. An initial value problem has only one specified point, while a boundary value problem has multiple specified points that the solution must pass through.

How are initial and boundary value problems used in science?

Initial and boundary value problems are used in various fields of science to model and predict the behavior of systems. They are commonly used in physics, chemistry, engineering, and other disciplines to study phenomena such as heat transfer, fluid flow, and chemical reactions.

What are some techniques for solving initial and boundary value problems?

Some common techniques for solving initial and boundary value problems include separation of variables, variation of parameters, and numerical methods such as Euler's method or Runge-Kutta methods. Other methods, such as Laplace transforms or Fourier series, can also be used depending on the specific problem.

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