Method of Characteristics help

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In summary, the problem involves finding the characteristics of the differential equation xyu_x+(2y^2-x^6)u_y=0. The solution involves setting du/dx=0 and solving for dy/dx, which results in the characteristics of \frac{y^2+x^6}{x^4}=C, where C is a constant and u is constant along this curve. The problem also includes an initial condition u(x,α x^n)=x^2, where n is a natural number and α>0. The solution for this problem depends on the value of α, with different values resulting in different solutions.
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lackrange
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Problem: Find the characteristics of
[tex] xyu_x+(2y^2-x^6)u_y=0[/tex]
So I rewrote this as [tex]u_x+\frac{2y^2-x^6}{xy}u_y=0 [/tex] and then set this as [tex]
\frac{du}{dx}=0\implies \frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{2y^2-x^6}{xy} [/tex]
I solved this, and found that the characteristics were [tex]\frac{y^2+x^6}{x^4}=C[/tex]
where C is a constant, and u is constant along this curve. Now the problem says consider the initial condition [tex]u(x,α x^n)=x^2,\;\;n\in \mathbb{N}\;\;α>0,[/tex]
for what α>0 does the problem have a solution? For what α > 0 is the solution uniquely? Your answer may depend on n (Try n=1, n=2 etc.).

So I wrote [tex]αx^n=\frac{y^2+x^6}{x^4} [/tex] and solved for α, but I don't think this is what I am suppose to do, can someone help me please?
 
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anyone?
 

FAQ: Method of Characteristics help

What is the Method of Characteristics?

The Method of Characteristics is a mathematical technique used to solve partial differential equations. It involves finding the characteristic curves of a given equation and using them to transform the equation into a set of ordinary differential equations, which can then be solved using standard methods.

When is the Method of Characteristics used?

The Method of Characteristics is often used in fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and other areas of physics and engineering where partial differential equations are common. It is particularly useful for solving boundary value problems with complex geometries.

How does the Method of Characteristics work?

The Method of Characteristics involves finding a set of characteristic curves that satisfy the given partial differential equation. These curves are then used to transform the equation into a set of ordinary differential equations, which can be solved using standard techniques. The solution is then obtained by combining the solutions of the transformed equations.

What are the limitations of the Method of Characteristics?

The Method of Characteristics is limited to linear partial differential equations with constant coefficients. It also requires the existence of characteristic curves, which may not always be present in every problem. Additionally, the technique can become computationally expensive for complex problems.

Are there any alternative methods to the Method of Characteristics?

Yes, there are other methods for solving partial differential equations, such as finite difference methods, finite element methods, and spectral methods. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, and the choice of method depends on the specific problem being solved.

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