Integrating factor for solving equation problem.

In summary: Also, the constant c should not be there as there is no integration involved in this step.In summary, the correct general solution for the given differential equation is y(t) = t+c/t. The mistakes in the attempted solution include using ln(-t) instead of -ln(t) and incorrect calculation of u(t) and the integration process.
  • #1
yaho8888
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Homework Statement



Find the gerneral solution of the differential equation below:
dy/dt=(-y/t)+2

Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution





my solution by using integrating factor:
1.find the homogenous solution first
dy/y = -1/t dt
you get ln(y) = -ln(t) when integrating both side.
you get y = -t

2. find gerenal soultion:
u(t) = 1/y(homogenous)
so in this case u(t) =1/-t, b(t) = 2

now apply integrating method:
(u(t)y(t))' = u(t)b(t)
(y(t)/-t)' = 2/-t
taking integral of both side we get
y(t)/-t = -2ln(t)+c = -ln(t^2)+c
then Y(t) = -t(-ln(t^2)+c) = -tln(t^2)+-tc
we get y(t) = -tln(t^2)+-tc for general solution.

but the book answer is y(t) = t+c/t

so did I do anything wrong, I don't really find anything wrong myself.
 
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  • #2
yaho8888 said:
1.find the homogenous solution first
dy/y = -1/t dt
you get ln(y) = -ln(t) when integrating both side.
you get y = -t

It is not ln(-t), it is -ln(t).

2. find gerenal soultion:
u(t) = 1/y(homogenous)
so in this case u(t) =1/-t, b(t) = 2

Shouldn't u(t) = 1/t just by reading off the differential equation?

(y(t)/-t)' = 2/-t
taking integral of both side we get
y(t)/-t = -2ln(t)+c = -ln(t^2)+c

Differentiate, not integrate.
 

What is an integrating factor?

An integrating factor is a function used in differential equations to simplify the process of solving them. It is multiplied with both sides of the equation in order to make it easier to integrate.

When is an integrating factor needed?

An integrating factor is needed when solving a first-order linear differential equation. It is used to transform the equation into a simpler form that can be more easily solved.

How do you find the integrating factor?

The integrating factor can be found by dividing the coefficient of the variable with the highest derivative by the function itself.

Why is the integrating factor important?

The integrating factor is important because it helps to solve differential equations that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to solve. It simplifies the equation and allows for a more straightforward solution.

Are there any limitations to using an integrating factor?

Yes, there are limitations to using an integrating factor. It can only be used for first-order linear differential equations and may not work for all types of equations. Additionally, it may not always provide the most efficient solution.

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