# Math Help - 3rd Order Recurrence Relation

1. ## 3rd Order Recurrence Relation

Hi,

I have a 3rd Order Homogenous Recurrence Relation, with a characteristic polynomial of

x^3 - r1x^2 - r2x - r3. This polynomial has three roots, \lambda1, \lambda2, \lambda3, which are the same.

I know for a 2nd Order Recurrence Relation with equal roots, the general solution of the relation is C1\lambda^n + C2n\lambda^n, for some constants C1, C2, but what is the general solution for a 3rd Order with equal roots?

Thankyou.

2. Hello, jsbach!

I have a 3rd Order Homogenous Recurrence Relation,
. . with a characteristic polynomial of: . $x^3$ - $r_1$ $x^2$ - $r_2$ $x$ - $r_3$

This polynomial has three roots: $\lambda_1$, $\lambda_2$, $\lambda_3$, which are equal.

I know for a 2nd Order Recurrence Relation with equal roots, the general
solution is: . $C_1$ $\lambda^n$ $+$ $C_2$ $n$ $\lambda^n$, for some constants $C_1$, $C_2$.

But what is the general solution for a 3rd Order with equal roots?

It is: . $C_1$ $\lambda^n$ + $C_2$ $n$ $\lambda^n$ $+$ $C_3$ $n^2$ $\lambda^n$