Linear differential equation problem

In summary, the conversation is about solving a linear differential equation of the first order with the equation \frac{dy}{dx} + 2y = xe^x. The person is discussing their limited experience with solving such equations and mentioning the use of an integrating factor. They are then reminded about the general solution for this type of equation and asked about their knowledge on methods for solving it. The person also questions if the given equation fits the formula layout, to which the other person asks for clarification on what doesn't match.
  • #1
tunabeast
27
0

Homework Statement


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



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I'v only ever solved differential equations where values can be separated easily, i understand i may have to use something called the integrating factor but this does not seem to fit the formula layout of

img1.gif
 
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  • #2
The equation you presented:

[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}+p(x)\cdot y=q(x)[/tex]

is a linear differential equation of the first order. This is the next type you learn after the ones you can separate immediately. It has a general solution. What is your knowledge on the ways for solving these? You should have some idea about this, can you show an attempt of solving it?
 
  • #3
tunabeast said:
[tex] \ \frac{dy}{dx} + 2y = xe^x [/tex]
... does not seem to fit the formula layout of

img1.gif
Why not? What doesn't match?
 
  • #4
Remember that p(x) and q(x) can be 'constant functions'.
 

1. What is a linear differential equation?

A linear differential equation is a mathematical equation that involves a dependent variable, its derivatives, and independent variables. The derivatives are all taken with respect to the independent variable, and the equation is linear in the dependent variable and its derivatives.

2. What is the general form of a linear differential equation?

The general form of a linear differential equation is:

an(x)y(n) + an-1(x)y(n-1) + ... + a1(x)y' + a0(x)y = g(x)

where n is the highest derivative, an, an-1, ..., a1, a0 are coefficients, y is the dependent variable, x is the independent variable, and g(x) is a function of x.

3. What is the solution to a linear differential equation?

The solution to a linear differential equation is a function that satisfies the equation for all values of the independent variable. It can be found by integrating the equation or using other mathematical techniques, such as separation of variables or variation of parameters.

4. How do you solve a linear differential equation problem?

To solve a linear differential equation problem, you first need to determine the type of equation (homogeneous or non-homogeneous) and its order. Then, you can use the appropriate method (such as integrating factors, substitution, or undetermined coefficients) to find the solution. It is also important to check the solution for correctness by plugging it back into the original equation.

5. What are some real-world applications of linear differential equations?

Linear differential equations are used in many fields of science and engineering, such as physics, chemistry, biology, economics, and engineering. They can be used to model various phenomena, such as population growth, radioactive decay, electrical circuits, and fluid dynamics. They are also used in the development of mathematical models for predicting and analyzing real-world systems and processes.

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