Solving by seperation of variables.

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving first-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using the method of separation of variables. Participants explore integration techniques and express challenges encountered during the process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the ODE \(\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{y^3}{x^2}\) and describes their attempt to separate variables, expressing difficulty with the integration of \(\frac{dy}{y^3}\).
  • Another participant references a general formula for integrating power functions, noting that it applies for all numbers except \(r = -1\).
  • A participant questions the integration of \(\frac{dy}{y}\) and seeks clarification on whether there is a logarithmic function similar to \(\ln y\) that can be used for \(\frac{dy}{y^3}\).
  • One reply suggests rewriting the power of \(y\) to facilitate integration, indicating that \(\frac{dy}{y^3}\) can be expressed as \(y^{-3} dy\) and provides the integrated result.
  • Another participant reiterates the integration formula, emphasizing the special case when \(r = -1\) leads to the natural logarithm.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the integration of different forms of \(\frac{dy}{y^n}\). There is no consensus on the best approach to integrate \(\frac{dy}{y^3}\), and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the participant's initial difficulties.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the need for clarification on integrating functions of the form \(\frac{dy}{y^n}\) and the implications of different values of \(n\) on the integration process. The discussion does not resolve the specific integration steps or assumptions involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals studying differential equations, particularly those new to the topic or self-taught learners seeking assistance with integration techniques.

misogynisticfeminist
Messages
370
Reaction score
0
I've got a few 1st order ODEs which I have problems solving. I am new to the subject and self-taught so I may have a little difficulty absorbing. The question is...

1. [tex]\frac {dy}{dx} = \frac {y^3}{x^2}[/tex]

for 1. I put it in the form,

[tex]x^2 dy = y^3 dx[/tex]

[tex]\frac {dy}{y^3} = \frac {dx}{x^2}[/tex]

But I get stuck when i integrate both sides. I have not integrated dy/ y^n functions before.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
For ALL numbers except r=-1, we have:
[tex]\int{t}^{r}dt=\frac{1}{r+1}t^{r+1}+C[/tex]
 
hmmm, I'm quite familiar with the formula. But, usually when we have a

[tex]\frac {dy}{y}[/tex] function, we usually get [tex]ln y +c[/tex] for the integral. So, i was wondering if there is anything remotely close to ln which I can use. I can actually integrate [tex]x^3[/tex] but I don't know what to do with the dy on top.

thanks.
 
When you have the dy on top you just need to rewrite the power of the y by putting a negative before the three. This is because dy/(x³) is just the same as (x^-3)dy.

[tex] \frac{{dy}}{{dx}} = \frac{{y^3 }}{{x^2 }}[/tex]

[tex] \int {\frac{{dy}}{{y^3 }}} = \int {\frac{{dx}}{{x^2 }}} [/tex]

[tex] \int {y^{ - 3} } dy = \int {x^{ - 2} } dx[/tex]

[tex] - \frac{1}{{2y^2 }} = - \frac{1}{x} + c[/tex]
 
Last edited:
arildno said:
For ALL numbers except r=-1, we have:
[tex]\int{t}^{r}dt=\frac{1}{r+1}t^{r+1}+C[/tex]


That's is true. When you have r=-1, then the answer would be [tex]ln x [\tex][/tex]
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
8K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K