Solving a Non-Linear First Order ODE with Quotient Rule

In summary, the student is struggling with a question given by their lecturer before being taught how to solve it. The question involves finding the derivative of dy/dx=(x(y+3)+(y+3)^2)/x^2, with given initial conditions. The student tried using a substitution of z=y/x and eventually arrived at dy/dx=z^2+z+(z+3)/x, but is now stuck and seeking help. They are also advised to use z=(y+3)/x instead, and use the quotient rule to solve for dy/dx before substituting it into the original equation.
  • #1
jimmythev
2
0
Hello, having a lot of trouble with a dodgy question one of my lecturers has set us before teaching us how to do it, none of my course can seem to work out what to do. The question is:

dy/dx=(x(y+3)+(y+3)2)/x2

where y(1)=4, and x>0

I tried a substitution of z=y/x to eventually give

dy/dx=z2+z+(z+3)/x and am now completely lost. Can anyone help me work out the soln?
 
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  • #2
You also need to replace dy/dx by something with just dz/dx (and z and x, but not y).
By the way, note that y/x and (y + 3)/x have the same derivative w.r.t. x, so taking z = (y + 3)/x may be more convenient (although I'm sure it will work out with z = y/x as well).
 
  • #3
If I use z=(y+3)/x I get to dy/dx=z2+z

When I take dz/dx I get -(y+3)/x2, so dz=-(y+3)/x2 dx,
How do I go about substituting this into the equation so I can integrate wrt z?
 
  • #4
dz/dx is NOT -(y+3)/x^2. y is a function of x too. You have to use the quotient rule. There will be a dy/dx in the expression for dz/dx. Solve for dy/dx and substitute the result into dy/dx=z^2+z.
 

FAQ: Solving a Non-Linear First Order ODE with Quotient Rule

What is a first-order non-linear ODE?

A first-order non-linear ODE, or ordinary differential equation, is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between a function and its derivative. It is non-linear because the function and/or its derivative appear in non-linear terms, such as powers or products.

How is a first-order non-linear ODE different from a linear ODE?

In a linear ODE, the function and its derivative only appear in linear terms, such as constants or variables raised to the first power. This makes the equation easier to solve, as there are established methods for solving linear ODEs. Non-linear ODEs, on the other hand, do not have a general method for solving and often require numerical or approximate solutions.

What are some real-world applications of first-order non-linear ODEs?

First-order non-linear ODEs can be used to model a variety of physical phenomena, such as population growth, chemical reactions, and electrical circuits. They are also commonly used in economics and finance to model complex systems and relationships.

How do you solve a first-order non-linear ODE?

There is no general method for solving first-order non-linear ODEs, but there are several techniques that can be used depending on the specific equation. These include separation of variables, substitution, and integrating factors. In some cases, numerical methods or computer simulations may be necessary to find an approximate solution.

What is the importance of first-order non-linear ODEs in mathematics?

First-order non-linear ODEs are an important tool for understanding and analyzing complex systems in mathematics and other fields. They allow us to model and predict the behavior of systems that are influenced by multiple factors and can help us make informed decisions and predictions in various applications.

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