Solve Differential Equation: dy/dx = dt

In summary, the conversation revolves around a question about solving the equation dy = dx/dt for the relation between y and x. The speaker has never seen an equation like this before and believes it is not possible to have an equation with a differential on one side and a derivative on the other. They ask for more information and clarification, but are told by others that the equation is meaningless and cannot be solved. The speaker still believes there may be a solution and asks for input from mathematicians and physicists. The conversation ends with the speaker expressing their belief that any two quantities appearing in an equation should have a solution.
  • #1
suma
14
0
hi,

is it possible to solve the following equation,

dy = dx/dt

for relation between y and x?

thanks
 
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  • #2
You'll have to tell us more. Where did you find that equation? In what context does this problem come up? What else do you know about x and y?
 
  • #3
suma said:
hi,

is it possible to solve the following equation,

dy = dx/dt

for relation between y and x?
I've never seen an equation like this, with a differential on one side and a derivative on the other.
 
  • #4
In fact, you can't have an equation of that form. In terms of "non-standard analysis" a differential and "ordinary" function are different orders of objects and cannot be equal.

(You can say that [itex]dy= \frac{dy}{dx}\frac{dx}{dt} dt[/itex] because there are differentials on both sides.)
 
  • #5
let's take dy = k dx/dt where k is a constant, can then the value of y in terms of x or vice versa be solved?

i think it is possible to solve this, asking the physics and mathematicians who have encountered such problem

mathematicians help out here!

thanks
 
  • #6
You have already been told by the "physics and mathematicians" out there that such a combination of symbols is meaningless- the two sides of the purported "equation" are different types of objects and so cannot be equal. That would be asking to solve "green= C sharp".

What reason do you have, after being told that the "equation" is meaningless, to "think it is possible to solve this"?
 
  • #7
i think that any two quantities x and y once appears with equality equation like that should have solution
 
  • #8
The question has been asked and answered, so I'm closing this thread.
 

FAQ: Solve Differential Equation: dy/dx = dt

What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is a mathematical equation that relates a function to its derivatives. It expresses how the rate of change of a function depends on the function itself.

What does dy/dx mean in a differential equation?

dy/dx represents the derivative of the function y with respect to the independent variable x. In other words, it shows how y changes as x changes.

How do you solve a differential equation?

The process for solving a differential equation varies depending on its type and complexity. In general, you can use various techniques such as separation of variables, integration, substitution, and using differential equation solvers to find the solution.

What is the importance of solving a differential equation?

Differential equations are used to model and understand natural phenomena in various fields such as physics, engineering, and economics. Solving them allows us to make predictions and analyze the behavior of systems in these fields.

Can differential equations have multiple solutions?

Yes, differential equations can have multiple solutions. This is because there are infinite functions that can satisfy the same differential equation. However, depending on the initial conditions, there may be a unique solution to a specific differential equation.

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