Differential equations Problem?

In summary, the conversation discusses two differential equations problems and how to solve them. The first problem involves showing that a given solution satisfies a differential equation by finding the derivative and substituting it into the equation. The second problem involves using an integrating factor to solve a differential equation in the form Ndy + Mdx = 0, with specific steps outlined for finding the correct integrating factor.
  • #1
tdabboud
2
0
Need Help with a couple diff eq problems:

2.) show y=cx^2 - x is a solution of xy' - 2y + x =0

I was trying to separate the variables so i could integrate but i cannot get it to work out.
I have tried so many things from adding 2y to both sides and and multiply by the inverse dx/dy. but no avail

3.) use Integrating factor to solve: xdy - ydx = x^2ydy
I subtracted x^2ydy to left side: and used this value as p(x) for the Int.Fact. but I do not think this is correct either. I cannot figure out what to use as p(x)

dy/dx + p(x)y = f(x)
 
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  • #2
tdabboud said:
Need Help with a couple diff eq problems:

2.) show y=cx^2 - x is a solution of xy' - 2y + x =0

I was trying to separate the variables so i could integrate but i cannot get it to work out.
I have tried so many things from adding 2y to both sides and and multiply by the inverse dx/dy. but no avail

There is an easier way is that if you are given a solution 'y', it will satisfy the DE. So just find y', then sub it into the DE, if you get 0, then y=cx2 is a solution.

tdabboud said:
3.) use Integrating factor to solve: xdy - ydx = x^2ydy
I subtracted x^2ydy to left side: and used this value as p(x) for the Int.Fact. but I do not think this is correct either. I cannot figure out what to use as p(x)

dy/dx + p(x)y = f(x)

Your equation will not be in that form, instead what you need to do is write it in the form

N dy + M dx = 0

If (∂N/∂x - ∂M/∂y)/M = f(x) then e∫-f(x) dx is an integrating factor

If (∂N/∂x - ∂M/∂y)/N = g(y) then e∫g(y) dy is an integrating factor.

Unfortunately I cannot remember if my signs for the integrating factors are correct, so I suggest you look them up for the correct thing. The general form is similar, but may differ by a + or - sign.
 

FAQ: Differential equations Problem?

What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is a mathematical equation that describes how a function changes over time, based on the function itself and its derivatives (or rates of change).

What are some common applications of differential equations?

Differential equations are commonly used in physics, engineering, economics, and other fields to model and understand dynamic systems such as population growth, heat transfer, and circuit analysis.

What is the difference between an ordinary differential equation and a partial differential equation?

An ordinary differential equation involves only one independent variable, while a partial differential equation involves multiple independent variables. Ordinary differential equations are often used to model one-dimensional systems, while partial differential equations are used for systems with multiple dimensions.

How do you solve a differential equation?

The method for solving a differential equation depends on the type of equation and its complexity. Some common techniques include separation of variables, substitution, and using specific formulas for certain types of equations.

Can differential equations be solved analytically or numerically?

Some simple differential equations can be solved analytically, meaning a closed-form solution can be found. However, many differential equations are solved numerically using computer algorithms and software, which approximates the solution with a series of values.

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