When the characteristic roots and are real and distinct, each root generates a valid exponential solution and . Because the differential equation is linear and homogeneous, the superposition principle applies, meaning any linear combination of these solutions is also a solution.
Conditions: The differential equation is linear, homogeneous, and has constant coefficients.; The characteristic roots and are real and distinct.
When the characteristic roots and are real and distinct, each root generates a valid exponential solution and . Because the differential equation is linear and homogeneous, the superposition principle applies, meaning any linear combination of these solutions is also a solution.
Conditions: The differential equation is linear, homogeneous, and has constant coefficients.; The characteristic roots and are real and distinct.