I think it would make the problem simpler if reduced to cylindrical coordinates, and thus there are only three variables and not four (r, theta, and t verus x, y, z, and t). Remember that there is a boundary problem that complicates things since at both MED's end and LAK's end the rope can only travel in one direction. If that overly complicates things, then maybe we can work the problem from another angle.

As to my background - I have an undergraduate degree in math, but it is coming up on 20 years and I'm a bit rusty. I've been pulling out my old Diff Eq and Fourier Analysis books but man it's been way too long!!

TIA

Sterling L. DeRamus
sderamus@connectsouth.net

Dear Sterling:

Assume I spend some time and write down you the solution, what are you going to do with it? Plot, just wonder at the expression?

I know a 75 year old person who has recently dusted his old books and began reading them - just to keep his gray matter active. The last I heard he was mastering a Complex Variables book. He does this as every one else - by reading and solving exercises and thinking about what he learned. If he had a question I would be happy to help him.

But my impression from your letter that sounds very enthusiastic is that you in fact do not care a little bit. Nah, I can't spent of my time on this. I would not mind if a visitor wanted to answer your question, but no, I do not have time to oblige every one's whim.

All the best,
Alexander Bogomolny