Tau and Galerkin operational matrices of derivatives for treating singular and Emden-Fowler third-order-type equations

In this paper, our target is to implement and analyze numerical algorithms for the numerical solutions of initial and boundary third-order singular-type equations, and in particular the Emden-Fowler-type equations. Both linear and nonlinear equations are investigated. Two kinds of basis functions in terms of the shifted Chebyshev polynomials of the second kind are employed. Regarding the initial value problems, a new Galerkin operational matrix of derivatives is established and utilized, while in the case of boundary value problems (BVPs), the operational matrix of derivatives of the shifted Chebyshev polynomials of the second kind is employed. Convergence and error estimates of the two proposed expansions are given. The obtained solutions are spectral and they are consequences of the application of tau and collocation methods. These methods serve to convert the problems governed by their initial/boundary conditions into systems of linear or nonlinear algebraic equations which can be solved via suitable numerical solvers. Finally, we support our theoretical study by presenting several examples to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed algorithms.