Definition of a solution of a first order ODE

In summary, a solution of the first order differential equation x'=f(t,x) is a function \varphi\in C^1(\text{proj}_1D,\mathbb{R}) that satisfies \varphi'(t)=f(t,\varphi(t)) for all t\in I and exists within the domain D.
  • #1
jacksonjs20
10
0
Given an open connected subset [itex]D[/itex] of the [itex](t,x)[/itex] plane and a function [itex]f\in C(D,\mathbb{R})[/itex], we say [itex]\varphi\in C^1(\text{proj}_1D,\mathbb{R})[/itex] is a solution of the first order differential equation [itex]x'=f(t,x)[/itex] if and only if [tex] \forall t\in \text{proj}_1D,\quad (t,\varphi(t))\in D
[/tex] and
[tex]\forall t\in I, \quad \varphi'(t)=f(t,\varphi(t)) .[/tex]

[itex]\textbf{Question}[/itex]: Is there a way to alter this definition so that the first condition after the 'iff' is automatically satisfied?

Thanks in advance for any help.
 
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  • #2
One possible approach is to replace the first condition with a different one: we say \varphi\in C^1(\text{proj}_1D,\mathbb{R}) is a solution of the first order differential equation x'=f(t,x) if and only if for all t\in I, there exists some point (t,\varphi(t))\in D such that \varphi'(t)=f(t,\varphi(t)). This ensures that the solution does not exist outside of the domain D.
 

FAQ: Definition of a solution of a first order ODE

What is a solution of a first order ODE?

A solution of a first order ODE, or ordinary differential equation, is a function that satisfies the equation and its initial conditions. In other words, it is a function that describes the relationship between a dependent variable and its independent variable, taking into account any external forces or influences.

What is a first order ODE?

A first order ODE is a type of differential equation that involves only one independent variable and its first derivative. It is often used to model relationships between quantities that are continuously changing over time or space.

How is a first order ODE solved?

A first order ODE can be solved using various methods, such as separation of variables, integrating factors, or using a substitution. The specific method used will depend on the form of the equation and any initial conditions given.

What is the role of initial conditions in a first order ODE solution?

Initial conditions are necessary in order to find a unique solution to a first order ODE. These conditions specify the value of the dependent variable at a specific point or time, and help to determine the constants of integration needed in the solution.

What are some applications of first order ODEs?

First order ODEs have many practical applications in various fields of science and engineering. They can be used to model the growth of populations, chemical reactions, electrical circuits, and more. They are also used in physics to describe the motion of objects under the influence of external forces.

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