The use of symbolic computation in solving free boundary problems by the Ritz-Galerkin method
Alfonso M. Miola · ACM SIGSAM Bulletin · 1974
This paper presents a particular method of solving an ordinary linear differential free boundary problem by using the methods of Ritz and of Galerkin. The method described benefits from symbolic manipulation because of the parameter derived from the free boundary condition.It is interesting to note how the using of the symbolic manipulation still offers some different solution strategies. This open choice gets our problem solvable with enough generality and flexibility by any of the present systems for symbolic manipulation.The main demand for symbolic computation is actually in performing symbolic integrations. Hence, according to the present situation of the symbolic integration algorithms, the ability of handling our kind of problem by a now-a-day system is discussed. The alternative of using pattern matching techniques is also presented and discussed.The solution of a particular free boundary problem, by the MACSYMA system is presented.