Solving the Heat Equation for $u(x,t)$

In summary, the conversation discusses solving the partial differential equation for heat conduction with given initial and boundary conditions. The solution involves using an infinite series and finding the coefficients through integration. The initial condition is u(x,0) = x(pi - x) and n must be odd for the solution to be valid. The process involves solving two integrals for xpi*sin(nx) and x^2*sin(nx).
  • #1
stunner5000pt
1,461
2
[tex] \frac{\partial u}{\partial t} - k \frac{\partial^2 u}{\partial x^2} = 0 [/tex]
for 0 <x < pi, t> 0

[itex] u(0,t) = u(\pi,t) = 0 [/itex]
[itex] u(x,0) = x (\pi - x) [/itex]

OK i know the boring part of getting u(x,t) = X(x) T(t)
the infinite series part is hard part
the coefficient [tex] c_{n} = \frac{2}{\pi} \int_{0}^{\pi} \sin(n(\pi -x)) \sin(nx) = \frac{-2}{\pi} \left(\frac{-1 + (-1)^n}{n}\right) \sin(nx) [/tex]
the -1^n is from the Cos n pi term taht would coem from the integration

thus n must be odd
[tex] c_{n} = \frac{4}{\pi} \frac{1}{2n-1} \sin(nx) [/tex]
is this good so far?
 
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  • #2
I am confused with your IC's. Is it u(x,0) = x(pi - x) or sin(n(pi - x))?
 
  • #3
x(pi -x ) is the initial condition
and i think i have mistaken this for X(pi -x)
wich is not the same thing
 
  • #4
Ok, so if x(pi -x) is your IC, then you will have to integrals to do. xpi* sin(nx)
and x^2 sin (nx). Its a bit more involved than the last one.

- harsh
 

FAQ: Solving the Heat Equation for $u(x,t)$

What is the Heat Equation and why is it important?

The Heat Equation is a partial differential equation that describes the distribution of heat over time and space. It is important because it has many practical applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and geology.

What are the main steps in solving the Heat Equation for $u(x,t)$?

The main steps in solving the Heat Equation are: 1) defining the initial and boundary conditions, 2) discretizing the equation using a suitable numerical method, 3) solving the resulting system of equations, and 4) interpreting and analyzing the solution.

What are the different numerical methods used to solve the Heat Equation?

Some common numerical methods for solving the Heat Equation include the Finite Difference Method, Finite Element Method, and the Method of Lines. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, and the choice of method depends on the specific problem and the desired level of accuracy.

What are the limitations of solving the Heat Equation for $u(x,t)$?

One limitation of solving the Heat Equation is that it assumes the material being studied has uniform thermal properties. It also assumes that the material is homogeneous and isotropic, meaning the properties do not vary with position or direction. Additionally, the Heat Equation does not take into account any external sources or sinks of heat.

What are some real-world applications of solving the Heat Equation for $u(x,t)$?

The Heat Equation has a wide range of applications, including analyzing heat transfer in buildings, predicting the spread of diseases, and understanding the movement of fluids in geological formations. It is also used in engineering and manufacturing processes to design and optimize heat exchangers, heat sinks, and other thermal systems.

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