Recast a differential equation with a change of variable

In summary, the conversation discusses an error found in a mathematical equation, specifically in the first term on the left-hand side of (3.34). The correct version of the equation is (3.33), which has a typo where "1"s should have been "l"s. This mistake was discovered by multiplying throughout by a factor of ##-\frac{m}{l^2u^2}##, which resulted in a different equation, LHS ##=\frac{1}{l^2}\frac{d^2u}{d\theta^2}+u##.
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I obtained an extra factor of ##\frac{1}{l^2}## in the first term on the LHS of (3.34).

From (3.33),

LHS ##=u^2\frac{d}{d\theta}(\frac{u^2}{m}\frac{du}{d\theta}\frac{dr}{du})-\frac{l^2u^3}{m}##
##=u^2\frac{d}{d\theta}(-\frac{1}{m}\frac{du}{d\theta})-\frac{l^2u^3}{m}##
##=-\frac{u^2}{m}\frac{d^2u}{d\theta^2}-\frac{l^2u^3}{m}##

Multiplying throughout by ##-\frac{m}{l^2u^2}##, we have
LHS ##=\frac{1}{l^2}\frac{d^2u}{d\theta^2}+u##
which differs from (3.34).

What's wrong?

Screen Shot 2016-03-22 at 12.56.41 pm.png


EDIT: I found the mistake. The text has a typo. The "1"s in (3.33) are actually "##l##"s.
 
Last edited:
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Well done !
 
  • #3
yes, this was the error ... :wink:
 

Related to Recast a differential equation with a change of variable

1. What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between a function and its derivatives. It is used to model many natural phenomena in physics, engineering, and other scientific fields.

2. What is a change of variable?

A change of variable is a mathematical technique used to transform a differential equation into a simpler form. It involves substituting a new variable or a combination of variables into the original equation.

3. Why is it useful to recast a differential equation with a change of variable?

Recasting a differential equation with a change of variable can make it easier to solve by reducing its complexity or revealing underlying patterns. It can also help to find new solutions or alternative representations of the problem.

4. What are some common types of changes of variables used in differential equations?

Some common types of changes of variables include substitution of a new independent or dependent variable, transformation of the equation using trigonometric or logarithmic functions, and introducing new parameters or constants.

5. Are there any limitations to using a change of variable in solving a differential equation?

Yes, there can be limitations when using a change of variable in solving a differential equation. It may not always be possible to find a suitable transformation that simplifies the equation or leads to a solution. Additionally, the new variable may introduce new conditions or constraints that need to be satisfied for the solution to be valid.

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