Solvability of higher index time-varying linear differential-algebraic equations (Q5946694)

The present paper deals with the existence and uniqueness theory of time dependent linear differential-algebraic equations (DAEs) of the form \[ A(t)\dot x(t)+ B(t)= q(t) \] for sufficient smooth coefficient functions and right-hand side. Extending the notation of tractability for index 2 and 3 DAEs introduced by \textit{R. März} [Result. Math. 15, No. 1/2, 149-171 (1989; Zbl 0667.34014); J. Math. Anal. Appl. 140, No. 1, 177-199 (1989; Zbl 0672.34006)] and by \textit{E. Griepentrog} and \textit{R. März} [Differential-algebraic equations and their numerical treatment (1986; Zbl 0629.65080)] to general indices the authors show that tractable linear DAEs of arbitrary index with consistent initial values are equivalent to appropriate classical initial value problems and, thus, uniquely solvable. An analogous result is shown when completing tractable linear DAEs with appropriate boundary conditions.