Second order differential equation

In summary, the conversation discusses finding a solution to a second-order differential equation that is nonlinear in the form of xy'+y=1/y^2. The participant suggests using an integrating factor, but the expert points out that this may not be appropriate for a nonlinear equation. The expert also hints at possible methods for solving the equation, such as checking for exactness, homogeneity, or Bernoulli form.
  • #1
jtruth914
21
0
Find a solution to the following second order differential equation
xy'+y=1/y^2

My Attempt:

P= y'= dy/dx

x dy/dx + y = 1/y^2

dy/dx + y/x = 1/xy^2

Integrating Factor = e^∫1/x dx = e^lnx

y e^lnx=∫ (e^lnx)(1/xy^2) dx
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I do not see how this equation is second-order. Where is the second derivative of y?

So where are you stuck? What are you doing?

It bothers me a little that you seem to be using an integrating factor on a nonlinear differential equation; typically, multiplying by an integrating factor is something you do when the the DE is linear (this one isn't since you have a y^2 term).

This differential equation is nonlinear, so it must be one of the types that can be solved explicitly (if this is a homework problem). Can it be shown to be exact, homogeneous, or Bernoulli? (Hint: it can.)
 

Related to Second order differential equation

What is a second order differential equation?

A second order differential equation is a mathematical equation that involves a second derivative of an unknown function. It is used to model many physical phenomena, such as motion, heat transfer, and electrical circuits.

What is the general form of a second order differential equation?

The general form of a second order differential equation is d2y/dx2 + p(x) dy/dx + q(x)y = r(x), where y is the unknown function, x is the independent variable, and p(x), q(x), and r(x) are known functions.

How do you solve a second order differential equation?

There are several methods for solving a second order differential equation, including separation of variables, variation of parameters, and the method of undetermined coefficients. The specific method used depends on the type of equation and its initial or boundary conditions.

What is the difference between a homogeneous and non-homogeneous second order differential equation?

A homogeneous second order differential equation has a right-hand side that is equal to zero, while a non-homogeneous equation has a non-zero right-hand side. The solutions to a homogeneous equation form a vector space, while the solutions to a non-homogeneous equation do not.

How is a second order differential equation used in real-world applications?

Second order differential equations are used in many fields of science and engineering to model physical systems and predict their behavior. For example, they are used in mechanics to describe the motion of objects, in thermodynamics to describe heat transfer, and in electrical engineering to analyze circuits.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
25
Views
669
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
352
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
873
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
879
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
783
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
674
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
636
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
2K
Back
Top