Section 24.3

Undetermined Coefficients

If the forcing function is a polynomial, exponential, or sine/cosine, we can guess the form of the solution.

1

Introduction

The logic is identical to 2nd order equations.

should "look like" and its derivatives.

2

The Rules

The Multiplier Rule

If your guess duplicates a term in the complementary solution , multiply by .

is the smallest integer that removes the duplication.

3

Worked Examples

Example 1: Basic Guess

.

1. : . .

2. Guess: is a polynomial (deg 1).

Base guess .

Conflict: overlaps with (constant).

New guess: .

Example 2: Resonant Frequency

.

has terms (from ).

Forcing matches .

Guess must be multiplied by x: .

Example 3: Superposition

.

Solve for separately ().

Solve for separately ().

Add them up.

4

Practice Quiz

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