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Article
Generalized functions in the qualitative study of heterogeneous populations
Mathematics Faculty Publications
  • Natali Hritonenko, Prairie View A&M University
  • Yuri Yatsenko, Houston Baptist University
  • Askar Boranbayev, Nazarbayev University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2019
Abstract

Solutions from non-smooth functional spaces, including generalized functions and measures, often appear in optimal control theory but are avoided in applications. They are however useful in finding the optimal distribution of investments into new and old capital equipment under improving technology. The corresponding economic problem involves optimal control in a linear Lotka-McKendrik model of age-structured population. Optimal solutions do not exist in normal functional classes and, so, generalized functions are used to construct the solutions. The optimal age-distributions of capital and investment include the Dirac function and are interpreted as instantaneous investment in equipment of certain age. A numerical simulation completes the presentation of the dynamics.

Citation Information
Natali Hritonenko, Yuri Yatsenko and Askar Boranbayev. "Generalized functions in the qualitative study of heterogeneous populations" (2019)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/natali-hritonenko/29/