All questions of Differential Equations for Mechanical Engineering Exam

Which of the following equations cannot be solved by using the method of separation of variables?
  • a)
    Laplace Equation
  • b)
    Helmholtz Equation
  • c)
    Alpha Equation
  • d)
    Biharmonic Equation
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Vertex Academy answered
The method of separation of variables is used to solve a wide range of linear partial differential equations with boundary and initial conditions, such as:
  • Heat equation
  • Wave equation
  • Laplace equation
  • Helmholtz equation
  • Biharmonic equation

The solutions of the equation 3yy’ + 4x = 0 represents a:
  • a)
    Family of circles
  • b)
    Family of ellipses
  • c)
    Family of Parabolas
  • d)
    Family of hyperbolas
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Family of Ellipses
The given differential equation 3yy' + 4x = 0 can be rearranged to give y' = -4x / 3y. This is in the standard form of a first-order differential equation. To find the solutions of this equation, we need to integrate it with respect to x.

Integrating the Equation
By integrating the equation y' = -4x / 3y with respect to x, we get:
∫(1/y) dy = ∫(-4x/3) dx
This simplifies to:
ln|y| = -2x^2 + C
Where C is the constant of integration.

Exponential Form
Taking the exponential of both sides, we get:
|y| = e^(-2x^2 + C)
|y| = e^C * e^(-2x^2)
|y| = Ae^(-2x^2)
Where A = e^C is a non-zero constant.

Ellipse Equation
The equation obtained, |y| = Ae^(-2x^2), represents a family of ellipses. This is because the general form of an ellipse centered at the origin is given by:
(x/a)^2 + (y/b)^2 = 1
Comparing this with the equation obtained, we see that it is of the form:
y = Be^(Ax^2)
Which represents a family of ellipses with foci on the y-axis.
Therefore, the solutions of the given differential equation represent a family of ellipses.

Consider the following differential equation:
Which of the following is the solution of the above equation (is an arbitrary constant)?
  • a)
  • b)
  • c)
  • d)
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanya Agarwal answered
Given differential eqaution is,

Let, y = v × x
dy = vdx + xdv
By substituting values of Y and dY in equation 1, we get

Integrating both sides
2 log x = log |sec v| - log v + log c

The solution of differential equationwill be ___________, where c1 and c2 are arbitrary constants.
  • a)
    y = c1x + c2x2
  • b)
    y = c1 log x + c2x
  • c)
    y = c1 + c2x
  • d)
    y = c1x2 + c2x3
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Gate Gurus answered
Concept:
Linear differential equations with variable coefficients can be reduced to linear differential equations with constant coefficients by suitable substitutions.
Euler Cauchy Homogeneous linear equation:

Calculation:
Given:
Euler Cauchy equation:

Now, the above differential equation becomes
D (D – 1) y – 2 D y + 2 y = 0
⇒ D2 y – D y – 2 D y + 2 y = 0
⇒ (D2 – 3 D + 2) y = 0
Auxiliary equation:
(D2 – 3 D + 2) = 0
⇒ (D - 2) (D - 1) = 0
⇒ D = 2, 1
Now the roots are real and different, and the general solution of given equation is 
y = c1 e2t + c2 et
⇒ y = c1x + c2x2

What is the complete solution for the equation x (y - z) p + y (z - x) q = z (x - y)?
  • a)
    ϕ (x + y + z, xyz) = 0
  • b)
    ϕ (x + 2y + z, xz) = 0
  • c)
    ϕ (2x + y + z, xyz) = 0
  • d)
    ϕ (x + y + z, xy) = 0
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Nilesh Kapoor answered
To solve the equation x(y - z)p y(z - x)q = z(x - y), we need to simplify the equation and find the values of x, y, and z that satisfy the equation.

Given equation: x(y - z)p y(z - x)q = z(x - y)

Simplifying the equation:
xy^2p - xz^2p + y^2zq - yx^2q = zx - zy
xy^2p - xz^2p + y^2zq - yx^2q - zx + zy = 0

Now let's break down the options and see which one satisfies the equation:

a) (x y z, xyz) = 0
This option suggests that the values of x, y, and z multiplied together should be equal to zero. However, this condition does not ensure that the given equation is satisfied. Therefore, option 'A' is not the correct solution.

b) (x 2y z, xz) = 0
This option suggests that the values of x and z multiplied together should be equal to zero. Again, this condition does not guarantee that the equation is satisfied. Therefore, option 'B' is not the correct solution.

c) (2x y z, xyz) = 0
This option suggests that the values of 2x, y, and z multiplied together should be equal to zero. Similar to the previous options, this condition does not lead to the solution of the equation. Therefore, option 'C' is not the correct solution.

d) (x y z, xy) = 0
This option suggests that the values of x, y, and z multiplied by xy should be equal to zero. However, this condition does not satisfy the equation. Therefore, option 'D' is not the correct solution.

Therefore, the correct solution for the equation x(y - z)p y(z - x)q = z(x - y) is option 'A', which states that (x y z, xyz) = 0.

General solution of the Cauchy-Euler equation
  • a)
    y = c1x2 + c2x4
  • b)
    y = c1x2 + c2x-4
  • c)
    y = (c1 + c2 In x) x4
  • d)
    y = c1x4 + c2x-4 In x
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanya Agarwal answered
Concept:
For different roots of the auxiliary equation, the solution (complementary function) of the differential equation is as shown below.

Calculation:
Given:

Put x = et
⇒ t = ln x

Now, the above differential equation becomes
D(D – 1)y – 7Dy + 16y = 0
⇒ D2y – Dy – 7Dy + 16y = 0
⇒ (D2 – 8D + 16)y = 0
Auxiliary equation:
(D2 – 8 D + 16) = 0
⇒ D = 4
The solutions for the above roots of auxiliary equations are:
y(t) = (c+ c2 t) e4t
⇒ y(x) = (c1 + c2 ln x) x4

A solution which does not contain any arbitrary constants is called a general solution.
  • a)
    True
  • b)
    False
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Rahul Chauhan answered
The answer is True.

Explanation:
In mathematics and engineering, a solution that does not contain any arbitrary constants is referred to as a general solution. This means that the solution represents all possible solutions to a given problem or equation, without any additional constraints or specific values.

Definition of a General Solution:
A general solution is a solution in which all possible solutions to a problem or equation are included. It does not contain any arbitrary constants, which means that it represents the complete set of solutions without any additional restrictions or specific values.

Characteristics of a General Solution:
1. Contains No Arbitrary Constants: A general solution does not involve any arbitrary constants. It represents the complete set of solutions without imposing any specific values or restrictions.

2. Represents All Possible Solutions: A general solution encompasses all possible solutions to a problem or equation. It includes all valid solutions without any additional constraints.

3. Allows for Flexibility: Since a general solution does not involve any arbitrary constants, it allows for flexibility in determining specific solutions. It provides a framework within which specific solutions can be derived by assigning suitable values to the constants.

4. Can Be Modified: A general solution can be modified or refined by adding specific constraints or conditions. By introducing additional information or requirements, a more specific solution can be obtained.

5. Applies to a Range of Problems: The concept of a general solution is applicable to various mathematical and engineering problems. It is a fundamental concept in differential equations, linear algebra, and other branches of mathematics.

In conclusion, a general solution is a solution that represents all possible solutions to a problem or equation without any arbitrary constants. It offers flexibility and can be modified or refined to obtain more specific solutions.

Consider the following statements about the linear dependence of the real valued functions y1 = 1, y2 = x and y3 = x2, over the field of real numbers.
I. y1, y2 and y3 are linearly independent on – 1 ≤ x ≤ 0
II. y1, y2 and y3 are linearly dependent on 0 ≤ x ≤ 1
III. y1, y2 and y3 are linearly independent on 0 ≤ x ≤ 1
IV. y1, y2 and y3 are linearly dependent on – 1 ≤ x ≤ 0
Which one among the following is correct?
  • a)
    Both I and II are true
  • b)
    Both I and III are true
  • c)
    Both II and IV are true
  • d)
    Both III and IV are true
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Anuj Verma answered
Analysis:
To determine the linear dependence of the functions y1= 1, y2= x, and y3= x^2, we need to check if there exist constants c1, c2, and c3 not all zero such that c1*y1 + c2*y2 + c3*y3 = 0 for all x in the given interval.

For -1 ≤ x ≤ 0:
In this interval, y1 = 1, y2 = x, and y3 = x^2. We need to find constants c1, c2, and c3 such that c1*1 + c2*x + c3*x^2 = 0 for all x in this interval.
Since this equation is a quadratic, it can only be satisfied if c1 = c2 = c3 = 0. Therefore, y1, y2, and y3 are linearly independent in this interval.

For 0 ≤ x ≤ 1:
In this interval, we have the same functions y1, y2, and y3. We need to find constants c1, c2, and c3 such that c1*1 + c2*x + c3*x^2 = 0 for all x in this interval.
Since this equation is a quadratic, it can only be satisfied if c1 = c2 = c3 = 0. Therefore, y1, y2, and y3 are linearly independent in this interval.

Conclusion:
Therefore, the correct statement is that both I and III are true. In the given intervals, the functions y1, y2, and y3 are linearly independent.

A function y(t) such that y(0) = 1 and y(1) = 3e-1, is a solution of the differential equation . Then y(2) is
  • a)
    5e−1
  • b)
    5e−2
  • c)
    7e−1
  • d)
    7e−2
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?


By applying the Laplace transform,
s2Y(s) − sy(0) − y′(0) + 2sY(s) − 2y(0) + Y(s) = 0

By applying the inverse Laplace transform
y(t) = e−t + (1 + y′(0))te−t
y(1) = 3 e-1
⇒ y(1) = e-1 + (1 + y’(0)) e-1 = 3 e-1
⇒ y’(0) = 1
Now the equation of y(t) becomes
y(t) = (1 + 2t) e-t
At t = 2,
y(2) = 5 e-2

In fluid kinematics, the approach of the Lagrangian method for analysis is:
  • a)
    tracing the behaviour of each and every particle of the flow
  • b)
    tracing the simultaneous behaviour of all particles through a section
  • c)
    by tracing only inlet particles' behaviour
  • d)
    by tracing only outlet particles' behaviour
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Tracing Behaviour of Each Particle
The Lagrangian method in fluid kinematics involves tracing the behavior of each and every particle of the flow. This means that instead of looking at the flow as a whole, individual particles are followed throughout their movements.

Advantages of Lagrangian Method
1. Precision: By tracking the behavior of each particle, the Lagrangian method allows for a detailed and precise analysis of fluid flow. This can be especially useful in complex flow situations.
2. Individual Particle Insights: By focusing on individual particles, the method provides insights into how each particle interacts with its surroundings and how it contributes to the overall flow behavior.
3. Dynamic Analysis: The Lagrangian method is well-suited for analyzing dynamic flow situations where particles may have varying velocities and trajectories.
4. Particle Tracking: By tracing the path of each particle, researchers can gain a better understanding of phenomena such as turbulence, mixing, and diffusion in fluid flows.

Application in Engineering
The Lagrangian method is commonly used in various engineering applications, such as in the design of turbomachinery, optimization of chemical processes, and simulation of environmental flows. By considering the behavior of individual particles, engineers can make more informed decisions and improve the efficiency and performance of fluid systems.
In conclusion, the Lagrangian method for fluid kinematics involves tracing the behavior of each particle in the flow, providing a detailed and insightful analysis of fluid dynamics.

Solve the following equation:
yexydx + (xexy + 2y)dy = 0
  • a)
    xexy + 2y2 = c
  • b)
    xexy + y2 = c
  • c)
    exy + 2y2 = c
  • d)
    exy + y2 = c
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Anagha Mehta answered
To solve the given equation, we need to separate the variables and integrate both sides with respect to their respective variables.

Given equation:

∫yexydx + ∫(xexy - 2y)dy = 0

Now let's solve each integral separately.

1. Integral with respect to x:

We can use integration by parts for the first integral. Let u = y and dv = exydx. Then du = dy and v = ∫exydx.

Using the integration by parts formula:

∫yexydx = y∫exydx - ∫(dy/ dx)∫exydx
= y∫exydx - ∫(1)(∫exydx)
= yexy - ∫exydx

2. Integral with respect to y:

∫(xexy - 2y)dy = ∫(xexy)dy - ∫(2y)dy
= x∫exydy - 2∫ydy
= xexy - y^2

Now let's substitute the results of the integrals back into the original equation:

yexy - ∫exydx + xexy - y^2 = 0

Combining like terms:

2yexy - y^2 - ∫exydx = 0

Rearranging the equation:

∫exydx = 2yexy - y^2

Comparing this equation with the given options:

exy - y^2 = c

We can see that the correct answer is option D: exy - y^2 = c.

A particle undergoes forced vibrations according to the law xn(t) + 25x(t) = 21 sin t. If the particle starts from rest at t = 0, find the displacement at any time t > 0. 
  • a)
  • b)
  • c)
  • d)
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Concept:
The solution of the linear differential equation is of the form:
y = C.F + P.I
where C.F is the complementary function and P.I is the particular integral.
The 2nd order linear differential equation in the symbolic form is represented as:
When X = Sin(ax)
f(-a2) is calculated by replacing D2 with ain f(D)
In the case of a forced damped system, the vibration equation:
 The solution of x is (CF + PI)
Where CF is complimentary function and PI is particular integral
But after some time CF becomes zero.
∴ x = P.I
Calculation:
Given:
xn(t) + 25x(t) = 21 sin t
The above equation can be written as:
D+ 25x = 21 × Sin (t)
Here, a = 1, So putting -a2 = D2 = -1 in the above equation
∴ The displacement at any time t > 0 = 

A particular solution for an equation is derived by substituting particular values to the arbitrary constants in the complete solution.
  • a)
    True
  • b)
    False
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanya Agarwal answered
A solution which does not contain any arbitrary constants is called a general solution whereas a particular solution is derived by substituting particular values to the arbitrary constants in this solution.

If f(Z) is an analytical function and (r, θ) denotes the polar co-ordinates, then:
  • a)
  • b)
  • c)
  • d)
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanya Agarwal answered
Cauchy Riemann Equation in Polar Form:
A function f(z) which is single-valued and possesses a unique derivative with respect to z at all points of a region R, is called an analytic function of z in that region.
If f = u + iv is differentiable at z = re then the Polar Cauchy Riemann equations at (r, θ) and x = rcos θ and y = rsin θ is given by, 

Important Point:
Cauchy Riemann Equation in Rectangular Form:
If f(z) = u (x, y) + iv (x,y) is differentiable at z = x + iy. Then at z the first order patial derivatives of u and v exist and satisfy:

Consider the differential equationThe general solution with constant C is
  • a)
  • b)
  • c)
  • d)
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanya Agarwal answered
Concept:
Separation of Variables:

Calculation:
Given:
Differential equation:

By separation of variables:

Integrating on both sides we will get:

The ordinary differential equation
  • a)
    linear and homogeneous
  • b)
    linear and non-homogeneous
  • c)
    non-linear and homogeneous
  • d)
    non-linear and non-homogeneous
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanya Agarwal answered
Concept:
Identification of Non-linear Differential Equation:

If any differential equation consists at least one of the above properties, then it is called non-linear differential equation and if any differential equation is free from all the above properties, then it is a linear differential equation.
Given:
It is free from all the four characteristics described in the table. Hence it is a linear differential equation.
Product of dependent and independent variable i.e. x and u is present. Hence it is a non-homogenous equation.

Let \(f\left( x \right) = \;\left\{ {\begin{array}{*{20}{c}} { - π }&{if\;}&{ - π
be a periodic function of period 2π. The coefficient of sin 5x in the Fourier series expansion of f(x) in the interval [-π, π] is
  • a)
    4/5
  • b)
    5/4
  • c)
    4/3
  • d)
    3/4
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanvi Kapoor answered
Concept:
Let f(x) is a periodic function defined in (C, C + 2L) with period 2L, then the Fourier series of f(x) is

Where the Fourier series coefficients a0, an, and bn are given by
  • If f(x) is an odd function, then only bn exists where a0 and bn are zero.
  • If f(x) is an even function, then both a0 and an exists where bn is zero.
Calculation:
\(f\left( x \right) = \;\left\{ {\begin{array}{*{20}{c}} { - π }&{if\;}&{ - π
Fundamental period = 2π
The given function is an odd function and hence only bn exists.

Here L = 2π

Now, the Fourier series of f(x) is,

The coefficient of sin 5x = b5

Singular solution of a differential equation is one that cannot be obtained from the general solution gotten by the usual method of solving the differential equation.
  • a)
    True
  • b)
    False
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Neha Mukherjee answered
Singular Solution of a Differential Equation

The given statement is true. A singular solution of a differential equation is one that cannot be obtained from the general solution obtained by the usual method of solving the differential equation.

General Solution
The general solution of a differential equation contains all possible solutions to the equation. It is obtained by integrating the differential equation and including an arbitrary constant.

Method of Solving Differential Equations
The usual method of solving a differential equation involves finding the general solution by integrating the equation and then applying initial or boundary conditions to determine the particular solution.

Singular Solution
A singular solution is a special solution that cannot be derived from the general solution. It arises when the arbitrary constant in the general solution takes on a specific value that satisfies additional conditions or constraints. These additional conditions are not accounted for in the general solution.

Example
Consider the differential equation: dy/dx = x/y

The general solution of this differential equation can be obtained by separating the variables and integrating both sides:
∫y dy = ∫x dx
y^2/2 = x^2/2 + C

Here, C is the arbitrary constant and represents the general solution.

However, suppose we have an additional condition that the solution must pass through the point (1, 1). Substituting these values into the general solution, we get:
(1)^2/2 = (1)^2/2 + C
1/2 = 1/2 + C
C = 0

The singular solution is obtained when the arbitrary constant C takes on a specific value of zero. Therefore, the singular solution to the differential equation is:
y^2/2 = x^2/2

This singular solution satisfies the additional condition and cannot be obtained from the general solution.

Conclusion
In conclusion, a singular solution of a differential equation is one that arises when the arbitrary constant in the general solution takes on a specific value that satisfies additional conditions or constraints. These singular solutions cannot be obtained from the general solution obtained by the usual method of solving the differential equation.

The differential equation representing the family of circles touching y-axis at origin is:
  • a)
    Linear & of first order
  • b)
    Linear & of second order
  • c)
    Non-linear & of first order
  • d)
    Non-linear & of second order
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanvi Kapoor answered
Equation of circle having centre at (r, 0) and radius r is written as:

(x - r)2 + (y - 0)2 = r2
x2 + r2 - 2xr + y2 = r2
x2 - 2xr + y2 = 0
x2 + y2 = 2xr        ___(1)
Differentiating on both sides:
x + yy’ = r
Put value of r in equation (1):
Thus, x2 + y2 = 2 (x + yy’) x
2xyy’ + x2 - y2 = 0
Note:
A differential equation is said to be linear if the dependent variable and its derivative appears in first degree.
Note:
 is the first order linear differential equation.

The Fourier series expansion of x3 in the interval −1 ≤ x < 1 with periodic continuation has
  • a)
    only sine terms
  • b)
    only cosine terms
  • c)
    both sine and cosine terms
  • d)
    only sine terms and a non-zero constant
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanya Agarwal answered
f(x) = x3
find f(x) is even or odd
put x = -x
f(-x) = - x3
f(x) = -f(-x) hence it is odd function
for odd function, ao = an = 0 
Fourier Series for odd function has only bn term

Hence only sine terms are left in Fourier expansion of x3
Additional Information
Fourier Series

Consider the initial value problem below. The value of y at x = In 2, (rounded off to 3 decimal places) is dy/dx = 2x - y, y(0) = 1   (Important - Enter only the numerical value in the answer)
    Correct answer is between '0.8774,0.8952'. Can you explain this answer?

    Explanation:
    Understanding the Initial Value Problem:
    - The initial value problem provided is dy/dx = 2x - y, with the initial condition y(0) = 1.
    - This problem involves finding the value of y at x = ln(2) using the given differential equation and initial condition.
    Solving the Initial Value Problem:
    - To solve the initial value problem, we need to find the solution to the differential equation dy/dx = 2x - y with the initial condition y(0) = 1.
    - By solving the differential equation, we can find the function y(x) that satisfies the given equation.
    - Substituting the initial condition y(0) = 1 into the solution will give us the value of y at x = ln(2).
    Finding the Exact Value of y at x = ln(2):
    - Solving the differential equation and applying the initial condition y(0) = 1 will give us the exact value of y at x = ln(2).
    - The calculated value, rounded off to 3 decimal places, falls between 0.8774 and 0.8952.

    Conclusion:
    - The value of y at x = ln(2), obtained by solving the initial value problem, lies between 0.8774 and 0.8952.
    - This range represents the approximate numerical value of y at x = ln(2) based on the given differential equation and initial condition.

    The solution of differential equation dx – (x + y + 1) dy = 0 is
    • a)
      (x + y + 2) ey = C
    • b)
      (x – y - 2) ey = C
    • c)
      (x + y + 2) e-y = C
    • d)
      (x – y + 2) ey = C
    Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

    Sanya Agarwal answered
    Given differential equation is,
    dx – (x + y + 1) dy = 0


    Put (x + y + 1) = t

    Now, the differential equation becomes


    ⇒ t - In (t + 1) = x + C1
    ⇒ (x + y + 1) – In (x + y + 2) = x + C1
    ⇒ y + 1 – C1 = In (x + y + 2)
    ⇒ In (x + y + 2) = y + k
    ⇒ (x + y + 2) = ey+k
    ⇒ (x + y + 2) e
    -y
     = C

    Solve
    Which of the following is the solution of above equation, when x = 0?
    • a)
      Can be any constant
    • b)
      Undefined
    • c)
      Zero
    • d)
      1
    Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

    Sanya Agarwal answered
    Concept:

    The given equation is multiplied with x to make it a equation of Cauchy Euler type.

    The given equation is of Cauchy Euler type. Cauchy Euler equation is homogenous linear equation with variable coefficient.
    They can be reduced to linear equations with constant coefficients
    Calculation:
    Given:

    Put x = et
    log x = t
    The given equation is written as
    [x2D2 + xD]y = 0      ---(1)
    Put xD = D’, x2D2 = D’(D’ - 1)
    [D’(D’ - 1) + D’]y = 0
    D’2 y = 0
    The auxiliary equation is D’2 = 0
    The roots of this equation are 0, 0
    C.F = (At + B) e0t
    y = (At + B)
    Put t = log x
    y = A log x + B
    At x = 0; y is undefined as log 0 is undefined.

    What are the conditions called which are required for a signal to fulfil to be represented as Fourier series?
    • a)
      Dirichlet’s conditions
    • b)
      Gibbs phenomenon
    • c)
      Fourier conditions
    • d)
      Fourier phenomenon
    Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

    Sanya Agarwal answered
    When the Dirichlet’s conditions are satisfied, then only for a signal, the fourier series exist. Fourier series is of two types- trigonometric series and exponential series.

    The solution of the differential equation (dy/dx) = ky, y(0) = c is
    • a)
      x = ce-ky
    • b)
      x = kecy
    • c)
      y = cekx
    • d)
      y = ce-kx
    Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

    Sanya Agarwal answered
    The given differential equation is, (dy/dx) = ky
    dy/y = kdx
    On integrating both the sides, we get
    ln y = kx + ln c
    y = cekx

    Solve: (x2D2 - 4xD + 6)y = x2
    where D = d/dx 
    • a)
      y = cx2 + cx2 - x2 logx2 
    • b)
      y = cx2 + cx3 - xlogx2 
    • c)
      y = cx2 + cx3 - x2logx2 
    • d)
      y = cx2 + cx2 - x logx2 
    Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

    Sanya Agarwal answered
    Cauchy's Equation MCQ Question 2 Detailed Solution
    Concept:
    If the derivation power and the variable power are the same, then the equation is Cauchy - Euler equation. 
    Now,
    It can be solved by putting x = ez and log x = z and hence d/dz = θ
    Analysis:
    (x2D2 - 4xD + 6)y = x2   ---(1)
    xD = θ 
    x2D= θ (θ - 1)
    substitute in equation (1):
    [(θ2 - θ) - 4θ + 6]y = e2z     ---(2)
    It becomes linear differential equation with real constants.
    f(θ) y = ϕ (z)
    f(θ) = θ2 - 5θ + 6, ϕ (z) = e2z
    C.F:
    θ2 - 5θ + 6 = 0
    m2 - 5m + 6 = 0
    (m - 2) (m - 3) = 0
    ∴ C.F = C1e2z + C2e3z

    putting θ = 2, f(θ) = 0
    hence,

    = -ze2z
    ∴ y = c1e2z + c2e3z - ze2z
    putting, x = ez
    ∴ y = cx2 + cx3 - x2logx2 

    The boundary-value problem yn + λy = 0, y(0) = y(λ) = 0 will have non-zero solutions if and only if the values of λ are  
    • a)
      0, ±1, ±2, ………..  
    • b)
      1, 2, 3, ……..  
    • c)
      1, 4, 9, ………  
    • d)
      1, 9, 25, ……… 
    Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

    Nishanth Basu answered
    Boundary-Value Problem

    The given boundary-value problem is:

    y'' + λy = 0

    where y(0) = y(l) = 0

    This is a second-order homogeneous differential equation with constant coefficients. The solution of this equation is given by:

    y(x) = c1 sin(√λx) + c2 cos(√λx)

    where c1 and c2 are constants to be determined.

    Non-Zero Solutions

    For non-zero solutions, the determinant of the coefficients of the homogeneous equation must be zero. This leads to the characteristic equation:

    √λ tan(√λ) = 0

    The roots of this equation give the values of λ. The roots are given by:

    √λn = nπ

    where n = 1, 2, 3, ...

    Therefore, the values of λ are:

    λn = n^2π^2

    Thus, the boundary-value problem has non-zero solutions if and only if λn = n^2π^2, where n = 1, 2, 3, ...

    Options

    a) 0, 1, 2, ...

    This option is incorrect because λ cannot be zero.

    b) 1, 2, 3, ...

    This option is incorrect because λ is not equal to n.

    c) 1, 4, 9, ...

    This option is correct because λn = n^2π^2, where n = 1, 2, 3, ...

    d) 1, 9, 25, ...

    This option is incorrect because the values of λ are the squares of odd integers multiplied by π^2.

    Conclusion

    Therefore, the correct option is c) 1, 4, 9, ... The boundary-value problem has non-zero solutions only for the values of λn = n^2π^2, where n = 1, 2, 3, ... These values are 1, 4, 9, ...

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