Using the Method of Undetermined Coefficients to find a particular solution

In summary, the general solution to $y'' - y = 0$ is $y_h = C_1e^t + C_2e^{-t}$, and using the Method of Undetermined Coefficients, we have found the particular solution $y_p = -t^2 - 2$ for the given ODE $y'' - y = t^2$.
  • #1
shamieh
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0
Note that the general solution to $y'' - y = 0$ is $y_h = C_1e^t + C_2e^{-t}$

In the following, use the Method of Undetermined Coefficients to find a particular solution.

a)$y'' - y = t^2$

So here is what I have so far

$y_p = At^2 + Bt + C$
$(y_p)'' = 2A$

Ive got $A = -1, B = 0 , C = 0$

so would the $y_p = -t^2$ be correct?
 
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  • #2
When you substitute $y_p$ into the given ODE, you obtain:

\(\displaystyle (2A)-\left(At^2+Bt+C\right)=t^2\)

or:

\(\displaystyle -At^2-Bt+2A-C=1t^2+0t+0\)

Equating coefficients, we obtain the system:

\(\displaystyle -A=1\)

\(\displaystyle -B=0\)

\(\displaystyle 2A-C=0\)

And so we find:

\(\displaystyle (A,B,C)=\left(-1,0,-2\right)\)

Thus, we have:

\(\displaystyle y_p(t)=-\left(t^2+2\right)\)

Does this make sense?
 
  • #3
shamieh said:
Note that the general solution to $y'' - y = 0$ is $y_h = C_1e^t + C_2e^{-t}$

In the following, use the Method of Undetermined Coefficients to find a particular solution.

a)$y'' - y = t^2$

So here is what I have so far

$y_p = At^2 + Bt + C$
$(y_p)'' = 2A$

so my mind has went blank...how do I solve this? $2A - At^2 + Bt + C = t^2$ Any advice would be great

I think it would be $A = 1/2, B= 0, C =0$

... may be that the solution is more simple You think...

$A = -1$

$B=0$

$2\ A + C = 0$

A and B are known... what is C?...

KInd regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
  • #4
YES! So $y_p = -t^2 - 2$
 

FAQ: Using the Method of Undetermined Coefficients to find a particular solution

Question 1:

What is the Method of Undetermined Coefficients?

The Method of Undetermined Coefficients is a technique used in solving differential equations where a particular solution is sought by assuming a form for the solution and finding the coefficients that satisfy the equation.

Question 2:

How does the Method of Undetermined Coefficients work?

The method works by first identifying the form of the particular solution based on the non-homogeneous terms in the differential equation. Then, the coefficients of this form are determined by substituting it into the equation and solving for the unknown coefficients.

Question 3:

What are the advantages of using the Method of Undetermined Coefficients?

The main advantage of this method is its simplicity and ease of use. It does not require any integration or differentiation, making it a straightforward approach to finding a particular solution. It is also useful when the non-homogeneous terms are in the form of polynomials, exponentials, or trigonometric functions.

Question 4:

What are the limitations of the Method of Undetermined Coefficients?

This method may not work for all types of non-homogeneous terms. It is most effective when the non-homogeneous terms follow a specific pattern, such as polynomials, exponentials, or trigonometric functions. It may also produce incorrect solutions if the form of the particular solution is not chosen correctly.

Question 5:

Can the Method of Undetermined Coefficients be used for higher-order differential equations?

Yes, this method can be used for higher-order differential equations. However, the complexity increases with higher-order equations as the form of the particular solution needs to be carefully chosen to satisfy all the terms in the equation. It is also important to check the validity of the solution by substituting it back into the original equation.

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