Constant or Variable Coefficients?

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SUMMARY

The differential equation ty' + y = sin(t) is classified as a first-order, linear, nonhomogeneous equation with variable coefficients. The presence of the term y^2 in the equation y'' + y^2 = 0 confirms its classification as a non-linear differential equation. The coefficient of y' is t, which varies with t, further establishing the variable coefficient nature of the equation. Clear distinctions exist between constant and variable coefficients based on the dependency of coefficients on the independent variable.

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Homework Statement



[tex]ty' + y = \sin(t)[/tex]

state the following:

Order of the DE
1st 2nd 3rd or n/a

Linear
Nonlinear
Not Applicable

Homogeneous
Nonhomogeneous
Not Applicable


Constant Coefficients
Variable Coefficients
Not Applicable


2. The attempt at a solution

1st,
Linear,
Nonhomogeneous

but I don't know how to distinguish between constant or variable coefficients. Is there an easy way to remember the rule here? Thanks
 
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im pretty sure its variable because there are some y's that vary as t changes.
If this is accurate just let me know.

Also if there is a differential equation

[tex]y'' + y^2 = 0[/tex]

does the fact that the y^2 make it non linear? I am hearing different arguments both ways here. Thanks! I am pretty sure that the y^2 makes it non linear by the way.
 
Last edited:
The coefficient of y' is t. Is that a constant or will it vary as t varies?

As for your second question, I don't know how you could "hear arguments both ways"! You might do well to ignore, in the future, those who "argue" that this is linear. y uis the "dependent variable" and y2 is definitely a non-linear function of y! This is, without argument, a "non-linear" differential equation!
 

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