Calculus Book for complementing differential equations

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the challenges of studying differential equations, particularly the need for a solid understanding of geometry to solve specific problems. The original poster, using an older textbook, encounters difficulties with exercises that require geometric analysis, prompting a request for book recommendations to improve their understanding of the subject. Participants emphasize the importance of a strong foundation in algebra, trigonometry, and geometry before tackling differential equations. Suggestions include "Elements of Coordinate Geometry" by S.L. Loney, although some find it outdated, and "Elementary Euclidean Geometry" by C.G. Gibson as a more modern alternative. Online resources like Khan Academy are also recommended for additional support in learning coordinate geometry.
Santilopez10
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Hello! Currently I own Differential Equations by H.B Phillips, a really old book, but difficult and does it´s purpose. I have only 1 problem, certain exercises require certain geometrical functional study I suppose, for example:
"find the equation of the curves so that the part of every tangent between the y-axis and the tangent point P(x,y) is divided in 2 equal parts by the x-axis." (sorry if I translated wrong)
To be honest, I hesitated a bit trying to find such a curve, so I checked the answers, and it was a simple quadratic equation, therefore I realized I need to study a bit geometry of functions, so if someone can recommend a book I would thank him a lot.
 
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The usual understanding is that, before you get to the study of differential equations, you have gone through algebra, trigonometry, geometry, analytical geometry, differential and integral calculus. Without that background, a DE text is likely to be quite difficult.
 
Dr.D said:
The usual understanding is that, before you get to the study of differential equations, you have gone through algebra, trigonometry, geometry, analytical geometry, differential and integral calculus. Without that background, a DE text is likely to be quite difficult.
the only problem is that I am trying to learn it by my self, so I don´t have anyone who can teach me. I´ve already learned plenty of calculus, algebra, and trigonometry, but no geometric analysis, would you mind recommending a book of the subject?
 
I don't have any current recommendations. I studied geometry in high school 60+ years ago. Try Google.
 
Dr.D said:
I don't have any current recommendations. I studied geometry in high school 60+ years ago. Try Google.
alright, thanks.
 
Looks like you need some help with coordinate geometry.
One nice book is Elements of Coordinate Geometry by S L Loney
 
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kaustubhb said:
Looks like you need some help with coordinate geometry.
One nice book is Elements of Coordinate Geometry by S L Loney

That book is ~100 old and is barely readable.
A modern alternative would be Elementary Euclidean Geometry by C G Gibson.
 

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