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In the method of Variation of Parameters of solving differential equations, where do the values used for $y_1$, and $y_2$ come from? Are they roots of the homogenous equation? Also, I assume that I first need to standardize my given equation before I can retrieve my $g(x)$. Is this correct?

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    Why do you think we can guess what you're denoting by $y_1$, $y_2$ and $g(x)$?2011-07-07
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    My guess would be that the system is $y''+a(x)y'+b(x)y=g(x)$ and $y_1$, $y_2$ are a fundamental set of solutions to the homogeneous equation $y''+a(x)y'+b(x)y=0$. But that is just my guess.2011-07-07
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    Do you have some particular equation in mind? This is a lot simpler to respond if you share work on a problem so that there isn't any confusion as to notational differences.2011-07-07
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    I second the suggestion that you write out the whole deal so we can see what you mean by the symbols you use. Meanwhile, you may be able to get enough information from the Wikipedia page http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variation_of_parameters to get you over the hump.2011-07-08
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    I think that makes sense. Thanks!2011-07-08

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