APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.

UNIT IV

APPLICATIONS OF PDE

4.1. ONE DIMENSIONAL WAVE EQUATION:

4.1.1. DEFINITION:

Consider an elastic string tightly

stretched between two points O and A
(Fig.4.1). Let O be the origin and OA as
x-axis. On giving a small displacement
to the string, perpendicular to its length
(parallel to the y-axis). Let y be the
displacement at p(x,y) at any time. The
wave equation is Fig. 4.1.

∂2y 2
2 ∂ y
= c
∂t 2 ∂x 2
T Tension
where c2 = = .
M Mass

VSCET
4.2 UNIT IV

4.1.2. SOLUTION OF ONE DIMENSIONAL WAVE EQUATION:

One dimensional wave equation is

∂2 y ∂2 y
= c2 (1)
∂t 2 ∂x 2

Let y(x,t)=X(x). T(t) ---- (2) be the solution of the given equation, where X
is a function of x only and T is a function of t only.
Diff. (2) p.w.r. to x and t, we get,

∂y ∂y
= x 'T = xT '
∂x ∂t

∂ 2y ∂2y
2
= x "T 2
= xT '' .
∂x ∂t

∴ (1) ⇒ XT " = c2 X ''T .

1 T" X"
=
c2 T X

X" 1 T"
= 2 = k (say)
X c T

X" 1 T"
∴ =k =k
X c2 T

X " = kX T " = c2kT

X " − kX = 0 (3) T " − c 2kT = 0 (4)

Case (i):

Let k be +ve (i.e.) k = p 2

(3) ⇒ X " − p 2X = 0

(4) ⇒ T " − c 2 p 2T = 0

Hence we have two ordinary diff. equations.

∴ The auxiliary equations are

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.3

m 2 − p2 = 0 m 2 − p 2c 2 = 0

m 2 = p2 m 2 = p 2c 2

m = ±p m = ±cp

∴ X = A1e px + A2e − px , T = A3ecpt + A4e −cpt

∴ (2) ⇒ (
y(x, t ) = ( A1e px + A2e − px ) A3ecpt + A4e −cpt )
Case (ii):

Let k be − ve (i.e.) k = − p 2

(3) ⇒ X " + p 2X = 0

(4) ⇒ T " + c2 p 2T = 0

∴ The auxiliary equations are

m 2 + p2 = 0 m 2 − p 2c2 = 0

m 2 = −p 2 m 2 = p 2c 2

m = ± pi m = ±cp

∴ X = A5 cos px + A6 sin px T = A 7 cos cpt + A 8 sin cpt

∴ (2) ⇒ y(x, t ) = ( A5 cos px + A6 sin px )  A 7 cos cpt + A 8 sin cpt 

 

Case (iii):

Let k = 0

(3) ⇒ X '' = 0 ,

(4) ⇒ T '' = 0 .

∴ The auxiliary equations are

m2 = 0 m2 = 0

m = 0, 0 m = 0, 0
VSCET
4.4 UNIT IV

∴ X = A9x + A10 T = A11t + A12

∴ (2) ⇒ y(x, t ) = ( A9x + A10 )( A11t + A12 )

Thus the various possible solutions of the wave equations are,

(
y(x, t ) = ( A1e px + A2e − px ) A3ecpt + A4e −cpt ) (5)

y(x, t ) = ( A5 cos px + A6 sin px )  A 7 cos cpt + A 8 sin cpt  (6)

 

y(x, t ) = ( A9x + A10 )( A11t + A12 ) (7)

4.1.3. NOTE:

In this problem the boundary conditions are fixed. (i.e.) y(0, t ) = 0, y(l, t ) = 0 .
If we apply these two conditions in (5) and (7) we get trivial solutions.

∴ The suitable solution is,

y(x, t ) = ( A1 cos px + A2 sin px )( A3 cos cpt + A4 sin cpt )

4.1.4. PROBLEMS:

TYPE I: ZERO INITIAL VELOCITY (VIBRATING STRING)

4.1.4.1. PROBLEM:

A string is stretched and fastened to two points x=0 and x=l apart. Motion is
started by displacing the string in to the form y = k(lx − x 2 ) from which it is released
at time t = 0 . Find the displacement of any point on the string at a distance of x
from one end at time t.

Solution:

The wave equation is

∂2y 2
2 ∂ y
= a .
∂t 2 ∂x 2

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.5

From the given problem, we

get the following boundary conditions:

Fig. 4.2.
(i) y(0, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

(ii) y(l, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

∂y(x, 0)
(iii) =0 (∵ initial velocity zero)
∂t
(iv) y(x, 0) = k (lx − x 2 ), 0 <x <l

Now the suitable solution is,

y(x, t ) = (c1 cos px + c2 sin px )(c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (1)

Applying condition (i) in (1), we get,

y(0, t ) = c1 (c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) = 0

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ⇒ c1 = 0

Sub. c1 = 0 in (1), we get,

y(x, t ) = c2 sin px (c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

y(l, t ) = c2 sin pl (c3 cos pat + c 4 sin pat ) = 0

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ,

⇒ c2 = 0 or sin pl = 0 .

Suppose if we take c2 = 0 and already we have c1 = 0 then we get trivial solution.

∴ c2 ≠ 0 ⇒ sin pl = 0

VSCET
4.6 UNIT IV

Since sin n π = 0

∴ pl = nπ (n be an integer)

nπ
p=
l
nπ
Put p = in (2) we get,
l
nπ x  nπ at nπ at 
y (x , t ) = c2 sin  c3 cos + c4 sin  (3)
l  l l 

Diff. (3) p.w.r. to ‘t’ we get,

∂y(x , t )
= c2 sin 
nπ x   −c sin  nπ at   n π a  + c cos  n π at   n π a  
      
∂t  l  3  l  l  4  l   l 

Applying condition (iii), we get,

∂y(x, 0) nπ x    nπ a   = 0
= c2 sin    0 + c4  
∂t  l   l 

nπ x  nπ a
Here c2 ≠ 0, sin   ≠ 0, ≠0
 l  l

∴ c4 = 0 .

Sub. c4 = 0 in (3) we get,

nπ x   nπ at 
y (x, t ) = c2 sin   c3 cos  
 l   l 

nπ x   nπ at  ,
y (x, t ) = cn sin   cos   where cn = c2c3 . (4)
 l   l 

∴ The most general solution of (4) can be written as

∞
nπ x   n π at 
y (x, t ) = ∑ cn sin  l 
 cos 
 l 
 (5)
n =1

Applying condition (iv) in (5) we get,

∞
nπ x 
y (x, 0) = ∑ cn sin  l 
2
 (1) = k (lx − x ) (6)
n =1

To find cn , expand k (lx − x 2 ) in a half-range Fourier sine series in the interval (0,l).

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.7

∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) = k (lx − x 2 ) = ∑ bn sin  l 
 (7)
n =1

l
2 nπ x 
where bn = ∫ f (x ) sin   dx
l 0  l 

From (6) and (7), we get,

cn = bn
l
2 nπ x 
∴ cn = bn = ∫ f (x ) sin   dx
l 0  l 

l
2k nπ x 
= ∫ (lx − x 2 )sin   dx
l 0
 l 

l
    
=
2k 
 − cos nπ x

(lx − x 2 )  l ( ) 

 − (l − 2x ) 
( )
 − sin
nπ x
l
  cos
 + (−2) 
( )
nπ x
l


l 



nπ
l ( ) 



 ( )
n
l
π 2






n
( )
l
π 3


  0

   
2k  −2(−1)n   2 
=  0 + 0 −  − 0 + 0 − 
nπ 3 3
l 

 l ( )  
 
  ( )
nπ
l


 

 
2k  −2(−1)n 2 
=  3
+ 3
l  nπ
 l ( ) ( )
nπ
l



2k l3
= 3 3 
 −2(−1)n + 2 
l n π

4kl 2
= 1 − (−1)n 
n 3π 3

 8kl 2
 , if n is odd
=  n 3π 3
0, if n is even


∴ Sub. cn in (5) we get,

VSCET
4.8 UNIT IV

∞
8kl 2  nπ x  cos  nπ at  .
y(x, t ) = ∑ 3 3 sin 
 l 
 
 l 

n = odd n π

4.1.4.2. PROBLEM:

A string of length 2l is fastened at both ends. The mid point of the string is
taken to a height ‘b’ and then released from rest in that position. Show that the
displacement
8b ∞
(−1)n −1  (2n − 1)π x   (2n − 1)π at 
y(x, t ) =
π2
∑ (2n − 1)2 sin 
 2l
 cos 
  2l


n =1

Solution:

The wave equation is

∂2y 2
2 ∂ y
= a .
∂t 2 ∂x 2

From the given problem, we get

the following boundary conditions:

Fig. 4.3.
(i) y(0, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

(ii) y(2l, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

∂y(x, 0)
(iii) =0 (∵ initial velocity zero)
∂t
Equation of OB is

y − y1 x − x1 (0, 0) (l ,b)
=
y2 − y1 x 2 − x1 (x1, y1) (x 2, y2 )

y −0 x −0
=
b−0 l −0
bx
y= , 0 <x <l
l

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.9

Equation of BA is

y − y1 x − x1 (l, b) (2l, 0)
=
y2 − y1 x 2 − x1 (x1, y1) (x2, y2 )

y −b x −l
=
0 − b 2l − l
x −l
y −b = (−b )
l
xb lb
y =b − +
l l
xb
= 2b −
l
2bl − xb
=
l
b
= (2l − x ) , l < x < 2l
l

bx , 0 <x <l


∴ (iv) y(x, 0) =  l
b ( 2l − x ) , l < x < 2l
 l

Now the suitable solution is,

y(x, t ) = (c1 cos px + c2 sin px )(c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (1)

Applying condition (i) in (1) we get,

y(0, t ) = c1 (c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) = 0

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ⇒ c1 = 0

Sub. c1 = 0 in (1), we get,

y(x, t ) = c2 sin px (c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

y(2l, t ) = c2 sin 2pl (c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) = 0

VSCET
4.10 UNIT IV

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ,

⇒ c2 = 0 or sin 2pl = 0 .

Suppose if we take c2 = 0 and already we have c1 = 0 then we get trivial solution.

∴ c2 ≠ 0 ⇒ sin 2pl = 0

Since sin n π = 0

∴ 2pl = nπ (n be an integer)

nπ
p=
2l
nπ
Put p = in (2) we get,
2l
nπ x   nπ at nπ at 
y(x, t ) = c2 sin    c3 cos + c4 sin  (3)
 2l   2l 2l 

Diff. (3) p.w.r. to ‘t’ we get,

∂y(x, t ) nπ x    nπ at   nπ a  + c cos  nπ at   nπ a  
= c2 sin    −c3 sin      
∂t  2l    2l   2l  4  2l   2l  

Applying condition (iii) we get,

∂y(x, 0) nπ x    nπ a   = 0
= c2 sin    0 + c4  
∂t  2l    2l  

nπ x  nπ a
Here c2 ≠ 0, sin   ≠ 0, ≠0
 2l  2l

∴ c4 = 0 .

Sub. c4 = 0 in (3) we get,

nπ x   n π at 
y(x, t ) = c2 sin   c3 cos  
 2l   2l 

nπ x   nπ at  ,
y(x, t ) = cn sin   cos   where cn = c2c3 (4)
 2l   2l 

∴ The most general solution of (4) can be written as

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.11

∞
nπ x   n π at 
y(x, t ) = ∑ cn sin  2l 
 cos 
 2l 
 (5)
n =1

Applying condition (iv) in (5) we get,

bx , 0<x <l

∞
nπ x   l
y(x, 0) = ∑ cn sin  = = f (x ) (say) (6)
 2l  b
n =1 (2l − x ) , l < x < 2l
 l

To find cn , expand f(x) in a half-range Fourier sine series in the interval

(0, L), where L=2l.

bx , 0<x <l

 ∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) =  l = ∑ bn sin  L 
 (7)
b ( 2l − x ) , l < x < 2l n =1
 l
L
2 nπ x 
where bn = ∫ f (x ) sin   dx
L0  L 

From (6) and (7), we get,

cn = bn
L
2 nπ x 
∴ cn = bn = ∫ f (x ) sin   dx
L0  L 

2l
2  nπ x  dx
=
2l ∫ f (x ) sin  2l


0

1  dx 
l 2l
nπ x   nπ x
=  ∫ f (x ) sin   dx + ∫ f (x ) sin  
l  0  2l  l
2l  

1  bx nπ x  
l 2l
 nπ x 
(2l − x ) sin 
b
= ∫ sin   dx + ∫  dx 
l  0 l  2l  l
l  2l  

l 2l
nπ x  dx + b (2l − x ) sin  n π x  dx
x sin 
b
2 ∫
l 2 ∫l
=   
l 0  2l   2l 

VSCET
4.12 UNIT IV

l
 
b 
= 2 x
− cos
nπ x
( )
2l − (1)
− sin ( )
nπ x
2l


l 

n π
2l ( ) nπ 2
2l ( ) 
 0
2l
 nπ x 
− cos ( ) − sin (
2l ) 
nπ x
b  
+ (2l − x ) 2l − (−1)
l 

2
( 2l )
nπ
( n2πl ) 
2


b 
= 2  −l
cos ( ) ( )  − (0 + 0)
nπ
2 +
sin
nπ
2
l 
 ( ) ( ) 
nπ
2l
nπ 2
2l


  nπ 
cos ( ) sin (
2 ) 
nπ
b  
2 −

+ (0 − 0) −  (−l )
l 

2



( nπ
2 l ) ( nπ
2 l ) 

 
2


b 
= 2 
 −l cos
nπ
( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) 
2 +
sin
nπ
2 +
l cos
nπ
2 +
sin
nπ
2
l 


n π
2l ( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) 
nπ
2l
2 n π
2l
nπ 2
2l


b 
= 2 2
sin
nπ
2 ( ) 
nπ 2
l 
 2l ( ) 
2
b  nπ  4l
= 2 sin  
l2  2  n 2π 2

8b nπ 
= 2 2
sin  
n π  2 

 8b  nπ ,
 2 2 sin   if n is odd
= n π  2 
0, if n is even

∞
8b nπ  sin  nπ x  cos  nπ at 
∴ y(x, t ) = ∑ sin 
2 2     
n = odd n π  2   2l   2l 

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.13

 (2n − 1)π 
sin ∞ 
= 2∑
8b  2  sin  (2n − 1)π x  cos  (2n − 1)π at 
   
π n =1 (2n − 1)2  2l   2l 

8b ∞
(−1)n −1  (2n − 1)π x   (2n − 1)π at 
y(x, t ) =
π2
∑ (2n − 1)2 sin  2l
 cos 
  2l


n =1

NOTE:

π
sin   = 1, sin 
3π   5π  = 1, .... , sin  (2n − 1)π  = (−1)n −1
 = −1, sin    
2  2   2   2 

4.1.4.3. PROBLEM:

A tightly stretched string with fixed end points x = 0 and x = l is initially

displaced in a sinusoidal are of length y0 and then released from rest. Find the
displacement y at any distance x from one end at time t.

Solution:

The wave equation is

∂2y 2
2 ∂ y
= a .
∂t 2 ∂x 2

From the given problem, we get the following boundary conditions:

(i) y (0, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

(ii) y(l, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

∂y(x, 0)
(iii) =0 (∵ initial velocity zero)
∂t
πx 
(iv) y (x , 0) = f (x ) = y 0 sin  , 0 <x <l
 l 

Now the suitable solution is,

VSCET
4.14 UNIT IV

y (x , t ) = (c1 cos px + c2 sin px )(c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (1)

Applying condition (i) in (1), we get,

y (0, t ) = c1 (c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) = 0

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ⇒ c1 = 0

Sub. c1 = 0 in (1), we get,

y(x, t ) = c2 sin px (c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

y (l, t ) = c2 sin pl (c3 cos pat + c 4 sin pat ) = 0

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ,

⇒ c2 = 0 or sin pl = 0 .

Suppose we take c2 = 0 and already we have c1 = 0 then we get trivial solution.

∴ c2 ≠ 0 ⇒ sin pl = 0

Since sin n π = 0

∴ pl = nπ (n be an integer)

nπ
p=
l
nπ
Put p = in (2) we get,
l
nπ x  nπ at nπ at 
y (x , t ) = c2 sin  c3 cos + c4 sin  (3)
l  l l 

Diff. (3) p.w.r. to ‘t’ we get,

∂y(x , t )
= c2 sin 
nπ x   −c sin  nπ at   n π a  + c cos  n π at   n π a  
      
∂t  l  3  l  l  4  l   l 

Applying condition (iii), we get,

∂y(x, 0) nπ x    nπ a   = 0
= c2 sin    0 + c4  
∂t  l   l 

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.15

nπ x  nπ a
Here c2 ≠ 0, sin   ≠ 0, ≠0
 l  l

∴ c4 = 0 .

Sub. c4 = 0 in (3) we get,

nπ x  c cos  nπ at 
y (x , t ) = c2 sin    
 l  3  l 

nπ x   nπ at  ,
y (x , t ) = cn sin   cos   where cn = c2c3 . (4)
 l   l 

∴ The most general solution of (4) can be written as

∞
nπ x  cos  n π at 
y (x , t ) = ∑ cn sin  l



 l 
 (5)
n =1

Applying condition (iv) in (5) we get,

∞
nπ x   πx 
y (x , 0) = ∑ cn sin   = y 0 sin  
n =1  l   l 

To find cn we expand, we get,

πx   2π x  + c sin  3π x  + ⋯ = y sin  π x 
c1 sin   + c2 sin     0  
 l   l  3  l   l 

Equating the coefficients, we get,

c1 = y 0 , c2 = 0, ⋯ = 0

Sub. c1 = y0 in (5) we get,

πx   π at  .
y (x , t ) = y 0 sin   cos  
 l   l 

4.1.5. PROBLEMS:

TYPE II: NON-ZERO INITIAL VELOCITY (VIBRATING STRING)

VSCET
4.16 UNIT IV

4.1.5.1. PROBLEM:

A tightly stretched string with fixed end points x = 0 and x = l is initially at

rest in its equilibrium position. If it is set vibrating string giving each point a
velocity λ x (l − x ) . Show that displacement
8 λl 3 ∞ 1  (2n − 1)π x   (2n − 1)π at 
4 ∑ .
y(x, t ) = 4
sin   cos 
aπ n =1 (2n − 1)  l   l 

Solution:

The wave equation is

∂2y 2
2 ∂ y
= a .
∂t 2 ∂x 2

From the given problem, we get the

following boundary conditions:

Fig. 4.4.
(i) y(0, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

(ii) y(l, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

(iii) y (x , 0) = 0, 0 <x <l

∂y(x , 0)
(iv) = λx (l − x )
∂t
Now the suitable solution is,

y (x , t ) = (c1 cos px + c2 sin px )(c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (1)

Applying condition (i) in (1), we get,

( )
y(0, t ) = c1 c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat = 0

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ⇒ c1 = 0

Sub. c1 = 0 in (1), we get,

y (x , t ) = c2 sin px (c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (2)

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.17

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

y (l, t ) = c2 sin pl (c3 cos pat + c 4 sin pat ) = 0

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ,

⇒ c2 = 0 or sin pl = 0 .

Suppose we take c2 = 0 and already we have c1 = 0 then we get trivial solution.

∴ c2 ≠ 0 ⇒ sin pl = 0

Since sin n π = 0

∴ pl = n π (n be an integer)

nπ
p=
l
nπ
Put p = in (2) we get,
l
nπ x  nπ at nπ at 
y(x, t ) = c2 sin  c3 cos + c4 sin  (3)
l  l l 

Applying condition (iii) in (3) we get,

nπ x 
y(x, 0) = c2 sin   (c + 0 ) = 0
 l  3

nπ x 
c2c3 sin  =0
 l 

nπ x 
Here c2 ≠ 0, sin   ≠ 0 ⇒ c3 = 0
 l 

Sub. c3 = 0 in (3) we get,

nπ x   n π at 
y(x, t ) = c2 sin   c4 sin  
 l   l 

nπ x  sin  nπ at  ,
= cn sin     where cn = c2c4 (4)
 l   l 

The most general solution of (4) can be written as

VSCET
4.18 UNIT IV

∞
nπ x   nπ at 
y(x, t ) = ∑ cn sin  l 
 sin 
 l 
 (5)
n =1

Diff. (5) p.w.r. to t we get,

∞
∂y(x , t ) nπ x   nπ at  .  nπ a 
∂t
= ∑ cn sin  l 
 cos   
 l   l 

n =1

Applying (iv) we get

∞
∂y(x, 0) nπ a   nπ x 
= ∑ cn   sin   = λ x (l − x )
∂t n =1  l   l 
∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) ∑ Bn sin  l 
 = λx (l − x ) (6)
n =1

nπ a
where Bn = . cn
l

To find Bn , expand λ x (l − x ) in a half-range Fourier sine series in the interval

(0,l).
∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) = λx (l − x ) = ∑ bn sin  l 
 (7)
n =1

l
2 nπ x 
where bn = ∫ f (x ) sin   dx
l 0  l 

From (6) and (7), we get,

Bn = bn
l
2 nπ x 
∴ Bn = bn = ∫ f (x )sin   dx
l 0  l 

l
2λ nπ x
= ∫ (lx − x 2 )sin   dx

l 0  l 

l
 
=
2λ 
(lx − x 2 )
− cos ( )
nπ x
l − (l − 2x )
− sin
nπ x
l ( )
+ (−2)
cos
nπ x
l ( ) 

l 

nπ
l( ) nπ 2
l ( ) nπ 3
l ( ) 
 0

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.19

   
2λ  2(−1)n   2 
=  0 + 0 −  − 0 − 0 − 
nπ 3 3
l 
 l ( )  
 
 
nπ
l( ) 

 

 
2λ  −2(−1)n 2 
=  3 + 3
l  nπ
 l ( ) ( )
nπ
l



4λ  l 3  n
=  3 3  (1 − (−1) )
l n π 

4λl 2
= 3 3 (
1 − (−1)n )
n π

Since

l
cn = . Bn
nπ a

l4λl 2
= .
nπ a n 3π 3
(1 − (−1)n )

4λl 3
= (1 − (−1)n )
an 4π 4

 8λl 3
 , if n is odd
= an 4π 4
0, if n is even


Sub. cn in (5) we get,

∞
8 λl 3  nπ x  sin  n π at 
y(x, t ) = ∑ 4 4 sin 
 l 
 
 l 

n = odd an π

8 λl 3 ∞ 1  (2n − 1)π x   (2n − 1)π at 

y(x, t ) = 4 ∑ 4 sin   cos  .
aπ n =1 (2n − 1)  l   l 

VSCET
4.20 UNIT IV

4.1.5.2. PROBLEM:

A string of length l is initially at rest in its equilibrium position and motion is

started by giving each of its points a velocity given by
cx , if 0 ≤ x ≤
l
 2 . Find the displacement function y(x, t ) .
v=
c(l − x ), if l ≤ x ≤ l
 2

Solution:

The wave equation is

∂2y 2
2 ∂ y
= a .
∂t 2 ∂x 2

From the given problem, we

get the following boundary conditions:

Fig. 4.5.

(i) y(0, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

(ii) y(l, t ) = 0, ∀t > 0

(iii) y(x, 0) = 0, 0 <x <l

cx, 0≤x ≤
l
∂y(x, 0)  2
(iv) = f (x ) = 
∂t c(l − x ), l
≤x ≤l
 2

Now the suitable solution is,

y(x, t ) = (c1 cos px + c2 sin px )(c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (1)

Applying condition (i) in (1), we get,

(
y(0, t ) = c1 c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat = 0)
Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ⇒ c1 = 0

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.21

Sub. c1 = 0 in (1), we get,

(
y(x, t ) = c2 sin px c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ) (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

y(l, t ) = c2 sin pl (c3 cos pat + c 4 sin pat ) = 0

Here c3 cos pat + c4 sin pat ≠ 0 ,

⇒ c2 = 0 or sin pl = 0 .

Suppose we take c2 = 0 and already we have c1 = 0 then we get trivial solution.

∴ sin pl = 0

Since sin nπ = 0

∴ c2 ≠ 0 ⇒ pl = n π (n be an integer)

nπ
p=
l
nπ
Put p = in (2) we get,
l

nπ x  nπ at nπ at 
y(x, t ) = c2 sin  c3 cos + c4 sin  (3)
l  l l 

Applying condition (iii) in (3) we get,

nπ x 
y(x, 0) = c2 sin   (c + 0 ) = 0
 l  3

nπ x 
c2c3 sin  =0
 l 

nπ x
Here c2 ≠ 0, sin   ≠ 0 ⇒c = 0
 3
 l 

Sub. c3 = 0 in (3) we get,

nπ x   n π at 
y(x, t ) = c2 sin   c4 sin  
 l   l 

nπ x  sin  nπ at  ,
= cn sin     (4)
 l   l 

VSCET
4.22 UNIT IV

where cn = c2c4

The most general solution of (4) can be written as

∞
nπ x   nπ at 
y(x, t ) = ∑ cn sin  l 
 sin 
 l 
 (5)
n =1

Diff. (5) p.w.r. to t we get,

∞
∂y(x , t ) nπ x   nπ at  .  nπ a 
= ∑ cn sin   cos    
∂t n =1  l   l   l 

Applying (iv) we get

cx , 0≤x ≤
l
∂y(x, 0) ∞
nπ a   n π x  

= ∑ cn   sin   = f (x ) = 
2
∂t n =1  l   l  c(l − x ), l
≤x ≤l
 2

∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) ∑ Bn sin  l 
 = f (x ) (6)
n =1

nπ a
where Bn = . cn
l

To find Bn , expand f (x ) in a half-range Fourier sine series in the interval

(0,l).
∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) = ∑ bn sin  l 
 (7)
n =1

l
2 nπ x 
where bn = ∫ f (x )sin   dx
l 0  l 

From (6) and (7), we get,

Bn = bn
l
2 nπ x 
∴ Bn = bn = ∫ f (x )sin   dx
l 0  l 

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.23

l 
2 2  dx 
l
π π
=  ∫ f (x )sin   dx + f (x )sin 
n x n x
l 0  l 
 ∫l 
 l  
 
 2 

l 
2 2  dx 
l
π π
=  ∫ cx sin   dx + c(l − x )sin 
n x n x
l 0  l 
 ∫
l

 l  
 
 2 
l
 2
=
2c 
x
− cos ( )
nπ x
l − (1)
− sin ( )
nπ x
l


l 

nπ
( )
l
nπ 2
( )
l

 0
l
 nπ x 
− cos ( ) − sin (
l )
nπ x
2c  
+ (l − x ) l − (−1)
l 
 ( l )
nπ
( nlπ ) 
2

l
2


=
2c  l
 −
cos
nπ
( ) ( )  − (0 + 0)
2 +
sin
nπ
2
l   2 nπ
 l ( ) ( ) 
nπ 2
l


  nπ  
 l cos ( ) sin (
2 ) 
nπ
2c  2 −

+ (0 − 0) −  −
l 

 2 nπ


( l ) ( l )  
nπ 

2


2c
= −
 l
cos
nπ
( ) ( )
2 +
sin
nπ
2 +l
cos
nπ
2 +
sin( ) ( ) 
nπ
2
l  2


n
l
π
( ) ( )
nπ
l
2
2 n
l
π
( ) ( ) 
nπ 2
l

2c nπ  l 2
= 2 sin  
l  2  n 2π 2

4cl nπ 
Bn = 2 2
sin  
n π  2 

Since

VSCET
4.24 UNIT IV

l
cn = . Bn
nπ a

4cl nπ 
sin 
l
= .
2 2 
nπ a n π  2 

4cl 2 nπ 
cn = 3 3
sin  
an π  2 

∴ The general solution is,

∞
4cl 2 nπ nπ x nπ at
y(x, t ) = ∑ an 3π 3 sin  2  sin  l  sin  l 
n =1

4cl 2 ∞ 1  nπ  sin  n π x  sin  nπ at  .

y(x, t ) = 3 ∑ 3 sin      
aπ n =1 n  2   l   l 

4.2. ONE DIMENSIONAL HEAT EQUATION

4.2.1. INTRODUCTION:

∂u ∂ 2u
The heat equation is = c2 2
∂t ∂x
Thermal conductivity
where c2 = .
(density)(specific heat)

Here u is a function of x and t .

4.2.2. SOLUTION OF HEAT EQUATION:

The various possible solutions of the heat equation are

(i) (
u(x , t ) = ( A1e px + A2e − px ) A3ec
2 p 2t
)
(ii) (
u(x , t ) = ( A4 cos px + A5 sin px ) A6e −c
2 p 2t
)
(iii) (
u(x , t ) = A7x + A8 A9 . )

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.25

4.2.3. NOTE:

The suitable solution of heat equation is

2 2
u(x , t ) = ( A cos px + B sin px ) e −c p t
.

4.2.4. PROBLEMS:

TYPE: I: ZERO BOUNDARY VALUES: (HEAT FLOW)

4.2.4.1. PROBLEM:

A rod of length l with insulated sides is initially at a uniform temperature u0 .

Its ends are suddenly cooled to 0c and are kept at the temperature. Find the
temperature function u(x, t ) .
Solution:

The temperature function u(x , t )

satisfies the one dimensional heat
equation
∂u ∂ 2u
= c2 2 . Fig. 4.6.
∂t ∂x

From the given problem we get

the following boundary conditions:
(i) u(0, t ) = 0, ∀ t ≥ 0

(ii) u(l, t ) = 0, ∀ t ≥ 0

(iii) u(x , 0) = u 0

Now the suitable solution is

2 2
u(x , t ) = ( A cos px + B sin px ) e −c p t
(1)

Applying condition (i) in (1) we get,

2 2
u(0, t ) = ( A + 0 ) e −c p t
=0

VSCET
4.26 UNIT IV

2 p 2t
Here e −c ≠0 ⇒A=0

2 p 2t
∴ (1) ⇒ u(x , t ) = B sin px e −c (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

2 2
u(l, t ) = B sin pl e −c p t
=0

2 p2t
Here e −c ≠ 0 , ∴ either B = 0 (or) sin pl = 0 .

If we take B = 0 and already we have A = 0 , we get trivial solution.

∴ B ≠ 0 ⇒ sin pl = 0.

Since sin nπ = 0

⇒ pl = nπ

nπ
p= .
l
nπ
Put p = in (2) we get,
l
2 2
2n π
nπ x  −c
u(x , t ) = B sin 
t
e l2 (3)
 l 

The most general solution is

∞ n 2π 2
nπ x  −c 2
u(x , t ) = ∑ Bn sin 
t
 e l2 (4)
n =1  l 

Applying condition (iii) in (4) we get,

∞
nπ x 
u(x , 0) = ∑ Bn sin  l 
 = u0 (5)
n =1

To find Bn , we expand u 0 in a half-range Fourier sine series in the inverval

(0,l),
∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) u0 = ∑ bn sin  l 
 (6)
n =1

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.27

l
2 nπ x 
where bn = ∫ f (x )sin   dx
l 0  l 

From (5) and (6) we have,

Bn = bn
l
2 nπ x 
∴ Bn = bn = ∫ u0 sin   dx
l 0  l 

=

2u 0  − cos l

( )
nπ x 


l 

nπ
l ( ) 
0

 
2u0  −(−1)n 1 
=  nπ − nπ 
l 
 l
( ) ( )
l



2u 0 l
= ( 1 − (−1)n )
l nπ

 4u0
 , if n is odd
=  nπ
0, if n is even


∴ The most general solution is

2 2
∞ 2n π
4u0 n π x  −c
sin 
t
u(x , t ) = ∑ nπ  l 
 e l2
n = odd

∞ 2 (2n −1)2 π 2
4u0 1  (2n − 1)π x  −c t
u(x , t ) = ∑
π n =1 (2n − 1)
sin 
 l


e l2 .

4.2.4.2. PROBLEM:

A homogeneous rod of conducting material of length l has its ends kept at

zero temperature. The temperature at the centre is T and falls uniformly to zero at
the two ends. Find the temperature function u(x, t ) .

VSCET
4.28 UNIT IV

Solution:

The temperature function u(x , t )

satisfies the one dimensional heat
equation
∂u ∂ 2u
= c2 2 .
∂t ∂x

From the given problem we get

the following boundary conditions:
Fig. 4.7.
(i) u(0, t ) = 0, ∀ t ≥ 0

(ii) u(l, t ) = 0, ∀ t ≥ 0

(iii) u(x , 0) = ?

Equation of OB is

(0, 0)  l ,T 
y − y1 x − x1  
= 2 
y2 − y1 x 2 − x1 (x1, y1 ) (x 2, y2 )

y −0 x −0
=
T −0 l −0
2
y 2x
=
T l
2Tx l
y= , 0≤x ≤
l 2

Equation of BA is

 l ,T  (l, 0)
y − y1 x − x1  
= 2 
y2 − y1 x 2 − x1 (x1, y1 ) (x 2 , y2 )

l
x−
y −T 2
=
0 −T l
l−
2

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.29

y − T 2x − l
=
−T l
−2Tx
y −T = +T
l
2Tx
y = 2T −
l
2Tl − 2Tx
y =
l
2T l
y= (l − x ), ≤x ≤l
l 2

 2Tx , 0≤x ≤
l
 2
∴ (iii) u(x , 0) =  l
 2T (l − x ), l
≤x ≤l
 l 2

Now the suitable solution is

2 2
u(x , t ) = ( A cos px + B sin px ) e −c p t
(1)

Applying condition (i) in (1) we get,

2 2
u(0, t ) = ( A + 0 ) e −c p t
=0
2 2
Here e −c p t
≠0 ⇒A=0

2 2
∴ (1) ⇒ u(x , t ) = B sin px e −c p t
(2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

2 p 2t
u(l, t ) = B sin pl e −c =0

2 p 2t
Here e −c ≠ 0 , ∴ either B = 0 (or) sin pl = 0 .

If we take B = 0 and already we have A = 0 , we get trivial solution.

∴ B ≠ 0 ⇒ sin pl = 0.

Since sin nπ = 0

⇒ pl = nπ

VSCET
4.30 UNIT IV

nπ
p= .
l
nπ
Put p = in (2) we get,
l
2 2
2n π
nπ x  −c
u(x , t ) = B sin 
t
e l2 (3)
 l 

The most general solution is

2 2
∞ 2n π
nπ x  −c
u(x , t ) = ∑ Bn sin 
t
 e l2 (4)
n =1  l 

Applying condition (iii) in (4) we get,

 2Tx , 0≤x ≤
l
∞
nπ x   l
u(x , 0) = ∑ Bn sin   = f (x ) = 
2 (5)
n =1  l   2T (l − x ), l
≤x ≤l
 l 2

To find Bn , we expand f (x ) in a half-range Fourier sine series in the interval (0,l),

∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) = ∑ bn sin  l 
 (6)
n =1

l
2 nπ x 
where bn = ∫ f (x )sin   dx
l 0  l 

From (5) and (6) we have,

Bn = bn
l
2 nπ x 
∴ Bn = bn = ∫ f (x ) sin   dx
l 0  l 
l
2 l
2 2Tx nπ x  2 2T nπ x 
= ∫ sin   dx + ∫ (l − x ) sin   dx
l 0 l  l  l l l  l 
2

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.31

l
 2
4T 
= 2 x
− cos
l( )
nπ x
− (1)
− sin
nπ x
l ( ) 

l 

nπ
l ( ) nπ 2
l ( ) 
 0
l
 nπ x 
− cos ( ) − sin (
l )
nπ x
4T  l

+ (l − x ) − (−1)
2
l 
 ( nlπ ) ( nlπ ) 
2

l
2


4T  −l
= 2 
cos
nπ
( ) ( )  − ( 0 + 0)
2 +
sin
nπ
2
l  2

nπ
l ( ) ( ) 
nπ 2
l


  nπ  
cos ( ) sin ( )  
nπ
4T   −l
+ (0 + 0) −  2 − 2 
2
l 

2


( n
l
π
) ( nπ
l ) 

 
2


4T 
= 2 
2 sin
nπ
2( ) 
l  nπ 2

 l ( ) 
8T l 2 nπ 
= 2 2 2
sin  
l nπ  2 

8T nπ 
= 2 2
sin  
n π  2 

∴ The general solution is

∞ 2 n 2π 2
8T nπ   nπ x  e −c
u(x , t ) = ∑ 2 2 sin 
t
 sin   l2
n =1 n π  2   l 
∞ 2 n 2π 2
8T 1 nπ   n π x  e −c
u(x , t ) = 2 ∑ 2 sin 
t
 sin   l2 .
π n =1 n  2   l 
NOTE 1:

In unsteady state, the temperature at any point of the body depends on the
position of the point and also the time ‘t’.

VSCET
4.32 UNIT IV

In steady state, the temperature at any point depends only on the position of
the point and is independent of the time ‘t’.

NOTE 2:

∂u ∂ 2u
= c2 2 (1)
∂t ∂x

In steady state condition, the temperature ‘u’ depends only on ‘x’ and not on

time ‘t’.

∂u
∴ =0
∂t

∂ 2u
∴ (1) ⇒ =0
∂x 2

⇒ u = ax + b , where a and b are constants..

NOTE 3: THERMALLY INSULATED ENDS:

If an end of heat conducting body is thermally insulated it means that no heat

passing through the section.

4.2.4.3. PROBLEM:

A rod 30 cm long has its ends A and B kept at 20c and 80c respectively
until steady state conditions prevail. The temperature at each end is then suddenly
reduced to 0c and kept so. Find the resulting temperature function u(x, t ) , taking
x = 0 at A.

Solution:

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.33

The temperature function u(x , t )

is the solution of the one dimensional

heat equation

∂u ∂ 2u Fig. 4.8.
= c2 2 .
∂t ∂x

∂u
When the steady state condition prevails, = 0.
∂t

∂2u
∴ =0
∂x 2

We integrating, u(x ) = ax + b

When x = 0 , u(0) = b

20 = b

When x = 30 , u(30) = 30a + b

80 = 30a + 20

30a = 60

a=2

∴ u(x , 0) = f (x ) = 2x + 20 .

Hence the conditions are,

(i) u(0, t ) = 0, ∀ t ≥ 0

VSCET
4.34 UNIT IV

(ii) u(30, t ) = 0, ∀ t ≥ 0

(iii) u(x , 0) = 2x + 20 .

Now the suitable solution is

2 2
u(x , t ) = ( A cos px + B sin px ) e −c p t
(1)

Applying condition (i) in (1) we get,

2 2
u(0, t ) = ( A + 0 ) e −c p t
=0
2 2
Here e −c p t
≠0 ⇒A=0

2 2
∴ (1) ⇒ u(x , t ) = B sin px e −c p t
(2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

2 p 2t
u(30, t ) = B sin 30 p e −c =0

2 p 2t
Here e −c ≠ 0 , ∴ either B = 0 (or) sin 30 p = 0 .

If we take B = 0 and already we have A = 0 , we get trivial solution.

∴ B≠0 ⇒ sin 30p = 0

Since sin nπ = 0

⇒ 30p = nπ

nπ
p= .
30
nπ
Put p = in (2) we get,
30
2 2
2n π
nπ x  −c
u(x , t ) = B sin 
t
e 302 (3)
 30 

The most general solution is

2 2
∞ 2n π
nπ x  −c
u(x , t ) = ∑ Bn sin 
t
 e 302 (4)
n =1  30 

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.35

Applying condition (iii) in (4) we get,

∞
nπ x 
u(x , 0) = ∑ Bn sin   = 2x + 20 (5)
n =1  30 

To find Bn , we expand f (x ) in a half-range Fourier sine series in the interval (0,30),

∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) = ∑ bn sin   (6)
n =1  30 

30
2  nπ x  dx
where bn =
30 ∫ f (x )sin  30 

0

From (5) and (6) we have,

Bn = bn
30
2  nπ x  dx
∴ Bn = bn =
30 ∫ f (x ) sin  30 

0
30
1  nπ x  dx
=
15 ∫ (2x + 20) sin  30 

0

30
 
=
1 
(2x + 20)
− cos
nπ x
( )
30 − (2)
− sin
nπ x
30 ( ) 

15 

nπ
30 ( ) nπ 2
30 ( ) 
 0

   
1  −(−1)n   −20 
=  (60 + 20) nπ + (2)(0)  −  nπ + 0  
15 

 30 ( )
 
  30
 
 
( )
 
1  (−1)n 20 
=  −80 + 
15 


nπ
30( ) ( )
nπ
30



1 30
= 20
15 nπ
(1 − 4(−1)n )
40
bn = ( 1 − 4(−1)n )
nπ

∴ The general solution is,

VSCET
4.36 UNIT IV

∞ n 2π 2
40  n π x  −c2 t
u(x , t ) = ∑ n
(1 − 4(−1) ) sin   e 302
n =1 nπ  30 

n 2π 2
40 ∞
(1 − 4(−1)n ) sin  nπ x  −c2 t
u(x , t ) =
π
∑ n
  e
 30 
302 .
n =1

4.2.5. PROBLEMS:

TYPE II: (NON-ZERO BOUNDARY VALUES)

4.2.5.1. PROBLEM:

A bar 10 cm long with insulated sides has its ends A and B kept at 20c and
40c respectively until steady state condition prevail. The temperature at A is then
suddenly raised to 50c and at the same time at B is lowered to 10c and
maintained there after. Find the subsequent temperature distribution in the bar.

Solution:

The temperature function u(x , t )

is the solution of the one dimensional
heat equation

∂u ∂ 2u
= c2 2
∂t ∂x Fig. 4.9.

∂u
When the steady state condition prevails, = 0.
∂t

∂2u
∴ =0
∂x 2

We integrating, u(x ) = ax + b

When x = 0 , u(0) = b

20 = b
MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE
 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.37

When x = 10 , u(10) = 10a + b

40 = 10a + 20

a=2

∴ u(x ) = 2x + 20 .

Hence the boundary conditions are

(i) u(0, t ) = 50, ∀ t ≥ 0

(ii) u(10, t ) = 10, ∀ t ≥ 0

(iii) u(x , 0) = 2x + 20

Now the suitable solution is

2 2
u(x , t ) = ( A cos px + B sin px ) e −c p t
(1)

Applying condition (i) in (1) we get,

2 p 2t
u(0, t ) = Ae −c = 50 (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

2 2
u(10, t ) = (A cos10p + B sin10p) e −c p t
= 10 (3)

From (2) and (3) it is not possible to find the constants A and B, since we have
infinite number of values for A and B. Therefore in this case, we split the solution
u(x, t ) into two parts.
(i.e.) u(x , t ) = uS (x ) + uT (x, t ) (4)

∂u ∂ 2u
Where uS (x ) is a solution of the equation = c2 2 and is a function of x alone
∂t ∂x

satisfying the conditions

uS (0) = 50

uS (10) = 10 .

VSCET
4.38 UNIT IV

And uT (x, t ) is a transient solution satisfying equation (4) which decreases as ‘t’

increases.

If u(x, t ) is a sub sequent temperature function, the boundary conditions are

(i) u(0, t ) = 50, ∀ t ≥ 0

(ii) u(10, t ) = 10, ∀ t ≥ 0

(iii) u(x , 0) = 2x + 20 .

To find uS (x ) :

uS (x ) = Ax + B

Put x = 0 , uS (0) = B

50 = B .

Put x = 10 , uS (10) = 10A + B

10 = 10A + 50 .

A = −4

∴ uS (x ) = −4x + 50

To find uT (x, t ) :

(4) ⇒ u(x , t ) = uS (x ) + uT (x, t )

∴ uT (x, t ) = u(x , t ) − uS (x ) (5)

Put x = 0 , uT (0, t ) = u(0, t ) − uS (0)

= 50 − 50

= 0.

Put x = 10 , uT (10, t ) = u(10, t ) − uS (10)

= 10 − 10

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.39

= 0.

Put t = 0 , uT (x , 0) = u(x , 0) − uS (x )

= (2x + 20) − (−4x + 50)

= 6x − 30 .

∴ The boundary conditions are,

(i) uT (0, t ) = 0, ∀ t ≥ 0

(ii) uT (10, t ) = 0, ∀ t ≥ 0

(iii) uT (x, 0) = 6x − 30 .

Now the suitable solution is

2 2
uT (x, t ) = ( A cos px + B sin px ) e −c p t
(I)

Applying condition (i) in (I) we get,

2 2
uT (0, t ) = Ae −c p t
=0

2 2
Here e −c p t
≠0 ⇒A=0

2 2
∴ (I) ⇒ uT (x, t ) = B sin px e −c p t
(II)

Applying condition (ii) in (II) we get,

2 p 2t
uT (10, t ) = B sin10p . e −c =0

2 p2t
Here e −c ≠ 0 , ∴ either B = 0 (or) sin10 p = 0 .

If we take B = 0 and already we have A = 0 , we get trivial solution.

∴ B ≠ 0 ⇒ sin 10p = 0.

Since sin nπ = 0

⇒ 10p = n π

nπ
p= .
10

VSCET
4.40 UNIT IV

nπ
Put p = in (II) we get,
10
2 2
2n π
nπ x  −c
uT (x, t ) = B sin 
t
e 100 (III)
 10 

The most general solution is

2π 2
∞ 2n
n π x  −c
uT (x, t ) = ∑ Bn sin 
t
 e 100 (IV)
n =1  10 

Applying condition (iii) in (IV) we get,

∞
nπ x 
uT (x, 0) = ∑ Bn sin   = 6x − 30 = f (x ) (V)
n =1  10 

To find Bn , we expand f (x ) in a half-range Fourier sine series in the interval

(0,10),
∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) = ∑ bn sin   (VI)
n =1  10 

10
2  n π x  dx
where bn =
10 ∫ f (x )sin  10 

0

From (V) and (VI) we have,

Bn = bn
10
2  n π x  dx
∴ Bn = bn =
10 ∫ f (x ) sin  10 

0
10
1  n π x  dx
=
5 ∫ (6x − 30) sin  10 

0

10
 
1
= (6x − 30)
− cos
nπ x
10 − (6) ( )
− sin
nπ x
10 ( ) 

5

nπ
10 ( )
nπ 2
10 ( ) 
 0

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.41

   
1  −(−1)n   −1 
=  (30) + (0)  −  (−30) + 0 
5 


nπ
10 ( )  
 
nπ
10 ( ) 
 

 
1 (−1)n 30 
=  −30 − 
5


nπ
10 ( ) ( )
nπ
10



1 10
= − 30
5 nπ
((−1)n + 1)
60
=− ((−1)n + 1)
nπ

Sub. Bn in (IV) we get,

2 2
∞
60 n π x  −c2 n π
(−1)n + 1) sin 
t
uT (x, t ) = ∑ − (  e 100
n =1 n π  10 

Hence

u(x , t ) = uS (x ) + uT (x, t )

2 2
60 1 ∞
nπ x  −c 2 n π t
u(x , t ) = −4x + 50 − ∑ ((−1)n + 1) sin   e 100 .
π n =1 n  10 

4.3. STEADY STATE SOLUTION OF TWO DIMENSIONAL HEAT

EQUATION: (INSULATED EDGES EXCLUDED)

4.3.1. INTRODUCTION:

The differential equation for two-dimensional heat flow for the unsteady case

is

∂u  ∂2u ∂2u 
= α2  2 + 2 
∂t  ∂x ∂y 

Here u(x , y ) is the temperature at any point (x,y) at time t.

VSCET
4.42 UNIT IV

∂u
In the steady-state, u is independent of ‘t’, so that = 0 . Hence the
∂t
∂2u ∂ 2u
temperature distribution of the plate in the steady state is + = 0 . This is
∂x 2 ∂y 2
called Laplace equation.

4.3.2. NOTE:

The suitable solution is

( )
u(x , y ) = A cos px + B sin px (Ce py + De − py )

4.3.3. PROBLEMS:

TYPE I: PROBLEMS ON FINITE PLATE:

4.3.3.1. PROBLEM

A square plate is bounded by the lines x = 0, y = 0, x = 10, y = 10 . Its faces

are insulated. The temperature along the upper horizontal edge is given by
u(x ,10) = x (10 − x ) , while the other three edges are kept at 0c . Find the steady state
temperature in the plate.

Solution:

The equation is

∂2u ∂ 2u
+ = 0.
∂x 2 ∂y 2

From the given problem we get the

following conditions:

Fig. 4.10.
(i) u(0, y ) = 0, 0 ≤ y ≤ 10

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.43

(ii) u(10, y ) = 0, 0 ≤ y ≤ 10

(iii) u(x, 0) = 0, 0 ≤ x ≤ 10

(iv) u(x ,10) = x (10 − x ), 0 ≤ x ≤ 10 .

Now, the suitable solution is

( )
u(x , y ) = A cos px + B sin px (Ce py + De − py ) (1)

Applying condition (i) in (1) we get,

u(0, y ) = A (Ce py + De − py ) = 0

Here Ce py + De − py ≠ 0, ∴ A = 0

Sub. A = 0 in (1) we get,

u(x , y ) = B sin px (Ce py + De − py ) (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

u(10, y ) = B sin10p (Ce py + De − py ) = 0

Since Ce py + De − py ≠ 0, ∴ either B = 0 or sin10p = 0 .

Since B ≠ 0 ⇒ sin 10 p = 0

We know that sin nπ = 0

⇒ 10p = nπ

nπ
∴ p=
10
nπ
Sub p = in (2) we get,
10
nπ y nπ y
nπ x   − 
u(x , y ) = B sin   Ce
10
+ De 10
 (3)
 10   

Applying condition (iii) in (3) we get,

nπ x
u(x , 0) = B sin   (C + D ) = 0

 10 
VSCET
4.44 UNIT IV

Here

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

4.46 UNIT IV

Sub. An in (5) we get,

∞
800 nπ x   nπ y 
u(x , y ) = ∑ 3 3
sin   .sinh  
n = odd n π sinh nπ  10   10 

∞
800 1  (2n − 1)π x   (2n − 1)π y 
=
π 3 ∑ (2n − 1)3 sinh(2n − 1)π sin  10
 .sinh 
  10
.

n =1

4.3.4. PROBLEMS:

TYPE II: PROBLEMS ON INFINITE PLATE:

4.3.4.1. PROBLEM:

A rectangular plate with insulated surface is 10 cm wide so long compared to

its width that it may be considered infinite in length. If the temperature at the short
x, 0≤x ≤5
edge y = 0 is given by u =  and the two long edge x = 0, x = 10 as
10 − x, 5 ≤ x ≤ 10
well as the other short edge are kept at 0c . Find the temperature function u(x, y ) at
any point of the plate.

Solution:

The two dimensional heat

equation is
∂2u ∂ 2u
+ = 0.
∂x 2 ∂y 2

From the given problem we get

the following conditions:

Fig. 4.11.
(i) u(0, y ) = 0, 0 ≤ y < ∞

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.47

(ii) u(10, y ) = 0, 0 ≤ y < ∞

(iii) u(x , ∞) = 0, 0 ≤ x ≤ 10

x , 0≤x ≤5
(iv) u(x, 0) =  .
10 − x , 5 ≤ x ≤ 10

Now, the suitable solution is

( )
u(x , y ) = A cos px + B sin px (Ce py + De − py ) (1)

Applying condition (i) in (1) we get,

u(0, y ) = A (Ce py + De − py ) = 0

Here Ce py + De − py ≠ 0, ∴ A = 0

Sub. A = 0 in (1) we get,

u(x , y ) = B sin px (Ce py + De − py ) (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

u(10, y ) = B sin 10 p (Ce py + De − py ) = 0

Since Ce py + De − py ≠ 0, ∴ either B = 0 or sin10p = 0 .

Since B ≠ 0 ⇒ sin 10 p = 0

We know that sin nπ = 0

⇒ 10p = nπ

nπ
∴ p=
10
nπ
Sub p = in (2) we get,
10
nπ y nπ y
nπ x   
u(x , y ) = B sin 
−
10
 Ce 
10
+ De (3)
 10   

Applying condition (iii) in (3) we get,

VSCET
4.48 UNIT IV

nπ x 
u(x , ∞) = B sin  ∞ −∞
 (Ce + De ) = 0
 10 

nπ x 
Here sin   ≠ 0, B ≠ 0 , e∞ ≠ 0
 10 

⇒ C =0

Put C = 0 in (3) we get,

nπ y
nπ x
u(x , y ) = B sin   De −

10
 10 
nπ y
nπ x  −
u(x , y ) = Bn sin  e
10
,where Bn = BD (4)
 10 

The most general solution is given by

∞ nπ y
nπ x  −
u(x , y ) = ∑ Bn sin  e
10 (5)
n =1  10 

Applying condition (iv) in (5) we get,

∞
nπ x  x , 0≤x ≤5
u(x , 0) = ∑ Bn sin   = f (x ) = 10 − x, 5 ≤ x ≤ 10 (6)
n =1  10  

To find Bn , expand f (x ) in a half-range Fourier sine series in (0,10)

∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) = ∑ bn sin  10 
 (7)
n =1

10
2  nπ x  dx
where bn =
10 ∫ f (x )sin  10 

0

From (6) and (7) we get,

Bn = bn
10
2  n π x  dx
∴ Bn = bn =
10 ∫ f (x ) sin  10 

0

1  dx 
5 10
nπ x  nπ x
=  ∫ f (x )sin   dx +
 ∫ f (x )sin  
5  0  10  5
10  

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.49

1  nπ x  dx 
5 10
 nπ x  dx +
=  ∫ x sin   ∫ (10 − x ) sin   
5  0  10  5
10  

5
 
1 
= x
− cos
nπ x
( )
10 − (1)
− sin
nπ x
10 ( ) 

5


n π
10 ( ) nπ 2
10 ( ) 

0
10
 nπ x 
− cos ( ) − sin (
10 ) 
nπ x
1 10 − (−1)

+  (10 − x )
5


( nπ
10 ) ( nπ
10 ) 


2

  
1 
=   −5
cos
nπ
( ) ( )
2 +
sin
nπ
2
 
 − ( 0 + 0 )
5 

nπ
10 ( ) ( )
nπ 2
10






1 


+ ( 0 + 0 ) − 
−5 cos
nπ
( ) ( ) 
2 −
sin
nπ
2
5




n
10
π
( ) ( ) 
nπ 2
10


1
= 
2 sin
nπ
2( ) 
5  nπ 2
 10 ( ) 
1 100 nπ 
= 2 2 2 sin  
5 n π  2 

40 nπ 
Bn = 2 2
sin  
n π  2 

∞ nπ y
40 1  n π  sin  nπ x  e −
2 ∑ 2 sin 
10
∴ u(x , y ) =    .
π n =1 n  2   10 

VSCET
4.50 UNIT IV

4.3.4.2. PROBLEM:

An infinitely long rectangular plate with insulated surface is 10 cm wide. The

two long edges and one short edge are kept at 0c temperature, while the other short
edge x = 0 is kept at temperature given by

20y, 0≤y ≤5
u = . Find the steady state temperature distribution in the
20(10 − y ), 5 ≤ y ≤ 10
plate.

Solution:

The two dimensional

heat equation is

∂2u ∂ 2u
+ = 0.
∂x 2 ∂y 2

From the given problem

we get the following

Fig. 4.12.
conditions:

(i) u(x , 0) = 0, 0 ≤ x < ∞

(ii) u(x ,10) = 0, 0 ≤ x < ∞

(iii) u(∞, y ) = 0, 0 ≤ y ≤ 10

20y, 0≤y ≤5
(iv) u(0, y ) =  .
20(10 − y ), 5 ≤ y ≤ 10

Now, the suitable solution is

(
u(x , y ) = ( Ae px + Be − px ) C cos py + D sin py ) (1)

Applying condition (i) in (1) we get,

u(x , 0) = ( Ae px + Be − px )C = 0

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.51

Here Ae px + Be − px ≠ 0 ⇒ C = 0

Sub. C = 0 in (1) we get,

u(x , y ) = D sin py ( Ae px + Be − px ) (2)

Applying condition (ii) in (2) we get,

u(x ,10) = D sin 10p ( Ae px + Be − px ) = 0

Since Ae px + Be − px ≠ 0, ∴ either D = 0 or sin10p = 0 .

Since D ≠ 0 ⇒ sin10p = 0

We know that sin nπ = 0

⇒ 10p = nπ

nπ
∴ p=
10
nπ
Sub p = in (2) we get,
10

n π y   nπ x nπ x

u(x , y) = D sin 
−
  Ae 10 + Be 10  (3)
 10   

Applying condition (iii) in (3) we get,

nπ y 
u(∞, y ) = D sin  ∞ −∞
 ( Ae + Be ) = 0
 10 

nπ y 
Here sin   ≠ 0, D ≠ 0 , e∞ ≠ 0
 10 

⇒ A=0

.Put A = 0 in (3) we get,

nπ x
nπ y  −
u(x , y ) = D sin   Be
10
 10 
nπ x
nπ y  −
u(x , y ) = Bn sin  e
10
where Bn = BD (4)
 10 

The most general solution is given by

VSCET
4.52 UNIT IV

∞ nπ x
nπ y −
u(x , y ) = ∑ Bn sin  10 e 10
(5)
n =1

Applying condition (iv) in (5) we get,

∞
nπ y 20y, 0≤y ≤5
u(0, y ) = ∑ Bn sin  10  = f (y) =  (6)
n =1 20(10 − y ), 5 ≤ y ≤ 10

To find Bn , expand f (y ) in a half-range Fourier sine series in (0,10)

∞
nπ y 
(i.e.) f (y ) = ∑ bn sin  10 
 (7)
n =1

10
2  nπ y  dy
where bn =
10 ∫ f (y)sin  10 

0

From (6) and (7) we get,

Bn = bn
10
2  nπ y  dy
∴ Bn = bn =
10 ∫ f (y) sin  10 

0

1 nπ y  
5 10
 nπ y  dy + f (y )sin 
=  ∫ f (y )sin   ∫  dy 
5  0  10  5
 10  

1  nπ y  dy 
5 10
 nπ y  dy +
=  ∫ 20y sin   ∫ 20(10 − y)sin   
5  0  10  5
10  

5 nπ y 
10
nπ y  
= 4  ∫ y sin   dy + ∫ (10 − y )sin   dy 
 0  10  5
 10  

5
 
 − cos
= 4 y
( )
nπ y
10 − (1)
− sin
nπ y
10 ( ) 




n π
10 ( ) n
10
π 2
( ) 

0
10
 nπ y 
− cos ( ) − sin (
10 ) 
nπ y
 
+ 4  (10 − y ) 10 − (−1)



( nπ
10 ) ( 10 )
nπ 


2

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE

APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.
 APPLICATIONS OF PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 4.55

(x) u2(x ,b) = 0

(xi) u2(0, y ) = 0

(xii) u2(a, y ) = 100 .

To find u1(x, y ) :

The suitable solution is

( )
u1(x , y ) = A cos px + B sin px (Ce py + De − py ) (1)

Applying condition (v) in (1) we get,

⋮
⋮
⋮

The most general solution is

∞
nπ x   nπ y 
u1(x , y ) = ∑ Bn sin  a 
 .sinh 
 a 
 (5)
n =1

Applying condition (viii) in (5) we get,

∞
nπ x   nπ b  = 100
u1(x ,b ) = ∑ Bn sin  a 
 .sinh 
 a 

n =1

∞
nπ x  nπ b 
= ∑ An sin   = 100, where An = Bn sinh   (6)
n =1 a   a 

To find An , expand f (x ) = 100 in a half-range Fourier sine series in (0, a )

∞
nπ x 
(i.e.) f (x ) = 100 = ∑ bn sin  a 
 (7)
n =1

a
2 nπ x 
where bn = ∫ f (x )sin   dx
a0  a 

From (6) and (7) we get,

An = bn

VSCET
4.56 UNIT IV

a
2 nπ x 
f (x ) sin 
a ∫0
∴ An = bn =  dx
 a 

⋮
⋮
⋮
200
= (1 − (−1)n )
nπ

 400 , if n is odd

An =  nπ
0, if n is even


nπ b 
Since An = Bn sinh  
 a 

An
∴ Bn =
nπ b 
sinh  
 a 

 400
, if n is odd
  nπ b 
=  nπ sinh  
 a 

0, if n is even

∞
400 nπ x   nπ y 
∴ u1(x, y ) = ∑ sin   .sinh  
π  a   b 
n π sinh  
n b
n = odd 
 a 
∞
400  (2n − 1)π x   (2n − 1)π y 
u1(x, y ) = ∑  (2n − 1)π b 
sin 
 a
 . sinh 
  b


n =1 (2n − 1)π sinh  
 a 

lll ly
∞
400  (2n − 1)π y   (2n − 1)π x 
u2(x, y ) = ∑ sin   .sinh  
n =1 (2n − 1)π sinh  
(2n − 1)π a  b   a 
 
 b 

∴ u(x , y ) = u1(x, y ) + u2(x , y ) .

MA2211 – TRANSFORMS AND PDE