Stumped by Integral: Solving a Differential Equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a specific differential equation using integration techniques. Participants explore the challenges associated with evaluating an integral that arises during the solution process, as well as the correctness of the steps leading up to that integral. The context includes both theoretical and applied aspects, as the problem originates from an engineering paper.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the differential equation \(\frac{dy}{dx} + \frac{y}{x^2} = 2x\) and expresses difficulty in evaluating the integral \(2\int xe^{-\frac{1}{x}} dx\) after applying an integrating factor.
  • Another participant suggests adding a constant to the result of the integration.
  • A participant questions the correctness of their steps leading to the integral evaluation and mentions using an integrator tool from Wolfram.
  • One participant provides an exact solution derived from Maple, indicating that the solution is \(y(x) = x^2 - x + e^{\frac{1}{x}}\text{Ei}\left( 1,\frac{1}{x}\right) + Ce^{\frac{1}{x}}\).
  • Another participant expresses skepticism about the reliability of the integrator tool, citing previous incorrect outputs.
  • A later post shifts the topic to seeking recommendations for advanced calculus texts for self-study, indicating a desire for thorough and precise material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the steps leading to the integral but express differing views on the reliability of the integrator tool and the evaluation of the integral itself. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the evaluation of the integral and the correctness of the initial steps.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made in the integration process and the dependence on the definitions of functions involved, particularly the exponential integral function. The discussion does not resolve the mathematical steps required to evaluate the integral.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students and practitioners in engineering and mathematics who are dealing with differential equations and integration techniques, as well as those seeking resources for advanced calculus study.

brendan_foo
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Hi guys,

In an attempt to solve the following differential equation, I have come up with an integral that has stumped me.

The differential equation is as follows:

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

Using an integrating factor, I end up with the following:

[tex]y \cdot e^{-\frac{1}{x}} = 2\int xe^{-\frac{1}{x}} dx[/tex]

I cannot solve that right hand integral, I have tried using parts and substitution and I can't really yield anything meaningful... Is it possible to evaluate this integral using basic calculus methods? Or is something else required?

Thanks! :biggrin:
 
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Add a constant to this result.

Daniel.
 

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I tried using the integrator from Wolfram..but I wanted to see if there was a neater result. This was actually a question on an engineering paper. Have I done steps preceeding the integral evaluation correct, with the integrating factor?

:confused:
 
Everything is okay.Here's what Maple says

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

, Exact solution is :

[tex]y\left( x\right) =x^2-x+e^{\frac{1}{x}}\mbox{Ei}\left( 1,\frac{1}{x}\right) +Ce^{\frac{1}{x}}[/tex]

Daniel.
 
I get the same thing as you brenden.

Also, I wouldn't trust that integrator too much. It has hapened to me twice that he provided a wrong answer.
 
Ok cheers fellas, must've been a type-o in the paper.

Much appreciated.
 
Oh by the way, I'm not sure what the equivalent is, but I am fairly proficient up to Calc III, and I want to begin pursuing some advance calculus. I am looking for a suitable text in which I can do some self study and tutor myself as best possible. Can anyone recommened a thorough and lucid text for self-study?

I am looking for something more precise, as opposed to just a list of rules and how to implement them.

Thanks guys, much appreciated
Peace
 
Last edited:

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