Differential Equations: Solving with Two Methods

In summary, the conversation was about solving a differential equation using two different methods, separating the variables and using integrating factors. The individual first solved it using separation and then tried to solve it using integrating factors but forgot to add the constant of integration when integrating. Once the constant was added, the solution matched the previous one.
  • #1
stefan10
35
0

Homework Statement



Solve each of these differential equations by two different methods.

[tex] \frac{dy}{dx} = 4(y+1)x^3[/tex]

Homework Equations



Integrating factor

[tex] \rho = \exp (\int(p(x) dx)[/tex]

Linear Equation

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

The Attempt at a Solution



So I first solved it using separation. I get [tex] y=A \exp(x^4) -1 [/tex]

I then try to solve it using Integrating factors.

[tex] \frac{dy}{dx} + - 4x^3 y=4x^3 [/tex]
[tex] \rho = \exp (\int -4x^3 dx) = exp(-x^4) [/tex]

Multiplying through by the integrating factor I get.

[tex] \exp(-x^4) y= \int 4x^3 exp(-x^4) dx [/tex]

but when I solve it, I get

[tex] y = -1 [/tex]What can I be doing wrong? I checked my steps multiple times.
 
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  • #2
stefan10 said:

Homework Statement



Solve each of these differential equations by two different methods.

[tex] \frac{dy}{dx} = 4(y+1)x^3[/tex]


Homework Equations



Integrating factor

[tex] \rho = \exp (\int(p(x) dx)[/tex]

Linear Equation

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


The Attempt at a Solution



So I first solved it using separation. I get [tex] y=A \exp(x^4) -1 [/tex]

I then try to solve it using Integrating factors.

[tex] \frac{dy}{dx} + - 4x^3 y=4x^3 [/tex]
[tex] \rho = \exp (\int -4x^3 dx) = exp(-x^4) [/tex]

Multiplying through by the integrating factor I get.

[tex] \exp(-x^4) y= \int 4x^3 exp(-x^4) dx [/tex]

but when I solve it, I get

[tex] y = -1 [/tex]


What can I be doing wrong? I checked my steps multiple times.

You are forgetting the constant of integration on ##\int 4x^3 exp(-x^4) dx##.
 
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  • #3
Dick said:
You are forgetting the constant of integration on ##\int 4x^3 exp(-x^4) dx##.

Oh yeah! I knew it was something so simple. Thank you very much! :)
 

What are differential equations?

Differential equations are mathematical equations that describe the relationship between a function and its derivatives. They are used to model real-world phenomena in various fields such as physics, engineering, and economics.

Why are differential equations important?

Differential equations are important because they allow us to understand and predict the behavior of complex systems. They are also the foundation of many mathematical models used in science and engineering.

What are some common applications of differential equations?

Differential equations are used in many fields, including physics (e.g. Newton's laws of motion), biology (e.g. population growth), chemistry (e.g. reaction kinetics), and engineering (e.g. circuit analysis).

What are the different types of differential equations?

The main types of differential equations are ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and partial differential equations (PDEs). ODEs involve a single independent variable, while PDEs involve multiple independent variables.

How can I solve a differential equation?

There are various methods for solving differential equations, including separation of variables, substitution, and using numerical methods. The choice of method depends on the type and complexity of the equation.

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