Lie point symmetry analysis of a second order differential equation with singularity

Abstract

By using Lie symmetry methods, we identify a class of second order nonlinear ordinary differential equations invariant under at least one dimensional subgroup of the symmetry group of the Ermakov-Pinney equation. In this context, nonlinear superposition rule for second order Kummer-Schwarz equation is rediscovered. Invariance under one-dimensional symmetry group is also used to obtain first integrals (Ermakov-Lewis invariants). Our motivation is a type of equations with singular term that arises in many applications, in particular in the study of general NLS (nonlinear Schrödinger) equations.

17 pages, final version