Solving non-homogeneous heat eq'n with fourier series

In summary, the heat equation is described by Ut - 4Uxx = 2t - xsin(x), with boundary conditions Ux(0,t) = Ux(pi,t) = 0 and initial condition U(x,0) = x^2 + 1. The approach to solving this equation using separation of variables involves expanding the RHS as a cosine Fourier series, with coefficients given by the integral of (2t + xsin(x))cos(nx) from 0 to pi. The problem arises in integrating the term xsin(x)cos(nx), which can be solved using integration by parts.
  • #1
wakko101
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Homework Statement


The heat eq'n is Ut -4Uxx = 2t - xsin(x)
Ux(0,t) = Ux(pi,t) = 0, U(x,0)=x^2+1

Homework Equations


Using separation of variables, in obtaining the eigenvalues/eigenfunctions of X''=-lambdaX, it would appear that you would need to use a cosine series basis and expand the equation. But it seems to me that the xsin(x) on the RHS of the equation is causing problems and I'm not sure how to proceed.

The Attempt at a Solution



If you expand the RHS as a cosine Fourier series, the coefficients would be given by int(0 to pi)(2t + xsin(x))cos(nx) dx. I'm stumped...any suggestions/hints would be appreciated.

Cheers. =)
 
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  • #2
Yes, that's right:
[tex]\int_0^\pi (2t+ x sin(x)cos(nx))dx[/itex]
(except for the normalizing factor in front)

What is the problem? Of course, t is a constant here so the first part is just
2t = 2t cos(0x). the second part,
[tex]\int_0^\pi x sin(x)cos(nx)dx[/tex]
you should be able to do with integration by parts. Let u= x, dv= sin(x)cos(nx)dx.
 
  • #3
I had thought of that. I suppose I'm not sure how to go about integrating dv=sin(x)cos(nx).
 

FAQ: Solving non-homogeneous heat eq'n with fourier series

What is a non-homogeneous heat equation?

A non-homogeneous heat equation is a mathematical equation that describes the flow of heat in a non-uniform medium. It includes a source term that represents a heat-generating or heat-absorbing substance within the medium.

What is a Fourier series?

A Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function, such as a heat distribution, as an infinite sum of sine and cosine functions. It is used to approximate solutions to differential equations, such as the non-homogeneous heat equation.

How do you solve a non-homogeneous heat equation with Fourier series?

To solve a non-homogeneous heat equation with Fourier series, you first need to find the homogeneous solution by setting the source term to zero. Then, you can use the method of variation of parameters to find the particular solution. Finally, you can combine the homogeneous and particular solutions to get the general solution.

What are the boundary conditions for solving a non-homogeneous heat equation with Fourier series?

The boundary conditions for solving a non-homogeneous heat equation with Fourier series are the initial conditions and the boundary conditions at the edges of the medium. These conditions help to determine the constants in the Fourier series and ultimately the solution to the equation.

What are some real-world applications of solving non-homogeneous heat equations with Fourier series?

Solving non-homogeneous heat equations with Fourier series has many practical applications, such as in heat transfer problems, modeling temperature distribution in materials, and predicting the behavior of physical systems. It is also used in fields such as engineering, physics, and meteorology.

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