Symmetry in Nonlinear Mathematical Physics - 2009


Ben Muatjetjeja (North-West University, Mafikeng, South Africa)

Group classification of the generalized Lane-Emden equation

Abstract:
In this talk we perform the Lie group classification of the generalized Lane-Emden equation xu''+nu'+xF(u)=0, which has many applications in mathematical physics and astrophysics. We show that the equation admits a three-dimensional equivalence Lie algebra. It is also shown that the principal Lie algebra, which in this case is trivial, has seven possible extensions. Three new cases arise for which the Lie point symmetry algebra is nontrivial.