ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Singular solution

Okay kiddo, let me explain what a singular solution is. Imagine you have a math problem that you need to solve, like 3x + 6 = 15. You can solve it by finding one value of x that makes the equation true. That one value is called the solution.

Now, let's say you have a more complicated math problem, like a differential equation. A differential equation is like a rule that tells you how things change over time. To solve it, you need to find a function that satisfies the rule.

Sometimes, when you're solving a differential equation, you might find that there is only one function that satisfies the rule. That one function is called the singular solution. It's special because it's the only one that works.

Think of it like a puzzle where there's only one piece that fits in a certain spot. That one piece is the singular solution to that part of the puzzle. So, when you hear someone talking about a singular solution in math, they're talking about a special answer that's the only one that works for a certain type of problem.