Solution to differential equation

In summary, the solution to the given differential equation is y = (x+C)/(1-Cx). The correct option from the multiple choice answers is E. The solution was obtained by rearranging the equation and taking the tangent on both sides, and then using trigonometric identities to simplify and solve for y.
  • #1
TedMurphy
2
0
Obtain the solution to the differential equation:

[tex]\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{1+y^2}{1+x^2}[/tex]

Multiple choice answer:

a) [tex]\frac{Cx}{1-Cx}[/tex]
b) [tex]\frac{Cx}{1+Cx}[/tex]
c) [tex]\frac{C-x}{1-Cx}[/tex]
d) [tex]\frac{1-Cx}{x+C}[/tex]
e) [tex]\frac{x+C}{1-Cx}[/tex]

Tried integrating two sides to arrive at arctan y = arctan x + C, but not sure how to proceed from there.
 
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  • #2
Rearrange first to get $$\tan^{-1}y - \tan^{-1}x = C$$ Then take tan on both sides and simplify.
 
  • #3
I'm going to write the simplification out, because it took me a while.

[tex]\tan^{-1}y - \tan^{-1}x = C[/tex]

In order to take tan on the left side, this equation needs to be re-written as:

[tex]\tan^{-1}\frac{y-x}{1+yx}=C[/tex]

then we can take the tangent of both sides, giving us:

[tex]\frac{y-x}{1+yx}=C[/tex]

then we solve for y:

[tex]{y-x}={C+Cyx}[/tex]

[tex]0 = C+Cyx-y+x[/tex]

[tex]0 = y(Cx-1)+C+x[/tex]

[tex]y = \frac{-C-x}{Cx-1}[/tex]

[tex]y = \frac{x+C}{1-Cx}[/tex]

Answer E above
 
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  • #4
I agree with the answer E, but you can take tan from the beginning: $$ \tan (\tan^{-1}y - \tan^{-1}x) = \tan K$$ Now let ##\tan^{-1}y = \theta,\,\,\,\tan^{-1}x = \phi##, so we have $$\tan(\theta - \phi) = \frac{\tan \theta - \tan \phi}{1 + \tan \theta \tan \phi},$$ using addition formulae. Sub in the above conditions and let ##\tan K = C## then rearrange gives the result.
 

FAQ: Solution to differential equation

What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is a mathematical equation that relates a function with its derivatives. It describes the rate of change of a variable or system over time, and is commonly used to model various physical phenomena in science and engineering.

What is the solution to a differential equation?

The solution to a differential equation is a function that satisfies the equation and its initial and boundary conditions. It is a general form of the equation that can be used to find specific solutions for different initial values or boundary conditions.

How do you solve a differential equation?

The method for solving a differential equation depends on its type and complexity. Some common techniques include separation of variables, substitution, and using integrating factors. Advanced methods such as Laplace transforms and numerical methods may be used for more complex equations.

Can a differential equation have multiple solutions?

Yes, a differential equation can have multiple solutions. This is because the solution to a differential equation is not unique, and there may be different functions that satisfy the equation and initial/boundary conditions. However, for certain equations, there may be a unique solution.

How are differential equations used in science?

Differential equations are used in many areas of science, including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. They can be used to model and predict the behavior of various systems, such as population growth, radioactive decay, chemical reactions, and motion of objects. They are also used in the development of mathematical models and computer simulations to study complex phenomena.

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