Differential Equations/Maths2

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Question
solve the initial vale second order homogeneous linear differential equation:
y"-4y'+4y=0 ,y(0)=0,y'(o)=-3,

Answer
Let y=e^(rx), so we get the characteristic equation:
r^2-4r+4=0 ==> (r-2)(r-2)=0 ==> r=2,2
Repeated root, so the general solution is: y(x)=(A+Bx)e^(2x)

Now impose the IC's:
y(0)=0 ==> 0=(A+0)e^0 ==> A=0 ==> y(x)=Bxe^(2x)
y'(0)=3 ==> y'=Be^(2x)+2Bxe^(2x) ==> y'(0)=B, so B=3

Final answer: y(x)=3xe^(2x)

Abe

Differential Equations

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Abe Mantell

Expertise

Hello, I am a college professor of mathematics and regularly teach all levels from elementary mathematics through differential equations, and would be happy to assist anyone with such questions!

Experience

Over 15 years teaching at the college level.

Organizations
NCTM, NYSMATYC, AMATYC, MAA, NYSUT, AFT.

Education/Credentials
B.S. in Mathematics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
M.S. (and A.B.D.) in Applied Mathematics from SUNY @ Stony Brook

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