A string equation with special boundary conditions (Q753008)

The study of the problem \[ w(x)y_{tt}(x,t)=(p(x)y_ x(x,t))_ x+\delta (x-a)u(t),\quad 0<x<1, \] \[ y|_{t=0}=y_ 0,\quad y_ t|_{t=0}=y_ 1,\quad w(x)>0,\quad p(x)>0, \] with linear boundary conditions of five types is carried out by using the Fourier method. The author establishes the existence of the unique generalized solution of the problem which has the convergent expansion in corresponding eigenfunctions of the problem. Then a controllability result on the set of images of the solutions at \(t=T\) is given. Properties of the system of eigenfunctions are also studied. The paper extends earlier results due to \textit{I. Joó} [Stud. Sci. Math. Hung. 22, No.1-4, 1-9 (1987; Zbl 0657.93006) and Period. Math. Hung. 18, 203-211 (1987; Zbl 0633.35056)] and \textit{M. Horváth} [Acta Math. Hung. 51, No.1/2, 171-180 (1988; Zbl 0669.93006)].