Can we use y=vx for non-homogeneous differential equation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the substitution \( y = vx \) for solving non-homogeneous differential equations, specifically the equation \( yy' = x^3 + \frac{y^2}{x} \). The substitution simplifies the equation to \( vx^2 \frac{dv}{dx} = x^3 \), leading to the integration \( y^2 = x^2(x^2 + c) \), where \( c \) is a constant. The participants confirm that this method is effective for finding solutions, and one user inquires about alternative solution methods.

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jasoncurious
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Homework Statement


Can we use y=vx for non-homogeneous differential equation?

Example:
yy'=x^3+(y^2/x)→not homogeneous


Homework Equations


y=vx
dy/dx=v+x(dv/dx)

The Attempt at a Solution


By substituting the equation above:
vx(v+x dv/dx)=x^3+(v^2 x^2)/x
v^2*x+vx^2 dv/dx=x^3+v^2*x
Eliminate the v^2*x:
vx^2 dv/dx=x^3
Divide both sides with x^2:
v dv/dx=x
vdv=xdx
Continue the integration:
y^2=x^2(x^2+c), where c is a constant
 
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The substitution y=vx makes it easier to find the solution, because a homogenous differential equation takes the form:

##\frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{f_1(x,y)}{f_2(x,y)}##

which then equals ##\frac{f(y/x)}{g(y/x)}## or ##\frac{f(x/y)}{g(x/y)}## by taking ##x^n## or ##y^n## common, if f1 and f2 are homogenous in degree n.
 
jasoncurious said:

Homework Statement


Can we use y=vx for non-homogeneous differential equation?

Example:
yy'=x^3+(y^2/x)→not homogeneous


Homework Equations


y=vx
dy/dx=v+x(dv/dx)

The Attempt at a Solution


By substituting the equation above:
vx(v+x dv/dx)=x^3+(v^2 x^2)/x
v^2*x+vx^2 dv/dx=x^3+v^2*x
Eliminate the v^2*x:
vx^2 dv/dx=x^3
Divide both sides with x^2:
v dv/dx=x
vdv=xdx
Continue the integration:
y^2=x^2(x^2+c), where c is a constant

Easier: ##v \, dv/dx = d(v^2/2)/dx.## And, there are two solutions.
 
May I know the hint to the other solution? Thanks
 

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