Differential Equations

Study of equations involving derivatives and their applications.

Advanced Topics

Second-Order Differential Equations

Stepping Up: Second Derivatives

These equations involve the second derivative, like \( y'' \) or \( \frac{d^2y}{dx^2} \).

General Form

\( a\frac{d^2y}{dx^2} + b\frac{dy}{dx} + cy = f(x) \)

Here, \( a \), \( b \), and \( c \) are constants.

Homogeneous vs. Nonhomogeneous

  • Homogeneous: \( f(x) = 0 \)
  • Nonhomogeneous: \( f(x) eq 0 \)

Applications

These equations describe systems with acceleration, like springs or circuits.


Key Formula

\[a\frac{d^2y}{dx^2} + b\frac{dy}{dx} + cy = f(x)\]

Examples

  • A mass on a spring: \( m\frac{d^2x}{dt^2} + kx = 0 \)

  • An electrical circuit with a resistor, capacitor, and inductor.

In a Nutshell

Second-order equations handle problems involving acceleration or curvature.

Key Terms

Homogeneous Equation
A differential equation where all terms involve the unknown function or its derivatives.
Nonhomogeneous Equation
A differential equation with a term independent of the unknown function.
Second-Order Differential Equations - Differential Equations Content | Practice Hub