Separable equations (but more like integration questions)

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving an initial-value problem involving differential equations, specifically using the method of separable equations. The original poster seeks assistance with integration techniques related to trigonometric functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to separate variables in the differential equation but expresses uncertainty about integrating specific trigonometric functions. They list several integrals they are struggling with and question whether knowledge of these integrals is expected after completing Calculus II.

Discussion Status

Some participants offer guidance on separating variables and suggest using trigonometric identities for integration. There is an indication that further clarification may be provided if requested, but no consensus or resolution has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions reviewing textbooks for integration techniques but has not found similar problems, indicating a potential gap in their understanding of the required concepts.

Beez
Messages
32
Reaction score
0
Hi, I have just started my differential equations class. To solve the initial-value problem, 8cos^2ydx + csc^2xdy = 0 (initial condition: y(pai/12) = (pai/4) )using separable equations method, I have to change the equation to
8/csc^2dx + 1/cos^2ydy (Am I right so far?)

My problem is I don't know (or remember) how to integrate neither 8/csc^2dx nor 1/cos^2y. Am I suppose to do know how to calculate if I have finished Calculus II? I reviewed Trig. and Calculus textbooks to figure out how to calculate them but so far could not find even a similar problem.

I also have no idea how to integrate the followings:

a. x/secx dx
b. 1/cot^2x dx
c. 1/cos3y dx
d. 1/sec^3 10x dx

Any kind of help would be highly appreciated!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The first one, you want to put the x's on one side and the y's on the other. To integrate sin^2 and secant squared you'll want to use some trig identities.

[tex]\cos^2(x) = \frac{1}{2}(1+\cos(2x))[/tex]. Others can be found http://www.math2.org/math/trig/identities.htm" .

a. xcosx dx, try parts.
b. tan^2x, translate to secant.
c. sec^3, translate sec^2 to tan^2+1
d. trig identities.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thank you

Thank you very much for the quick response.
I will try to solve the problems with the reference you provided.
 
Post again if you want a more thorough explanation.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
4K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K