Definition of differential equation

[find_the_fun]

My textbook defines differential equation as

an equation containing the derivatives of one or more unknown functions(or dependent variables), with respect to one or more independent variables.

Could someone explain what is meant by the part in parenthesis "dependent variables"? I don't see the difference.

 

[mathmari]

My textbook defines differential equation as
Could someone explain what is meant by the part in parenthesis "dependent variables"? I don't see the difference.

When a differential equation involves one or more derivatives with respect to a particular variable, that variable is called the independent variable.

A variable is called dependent if a derivative of that variable occurs.

When $y = y(x)$ is an unknown function in respect to $x$, $y$ is a dependent variable and $x$ an independent variable.

 

[find_the_fun]

When a differential equation involves one or more derivatives with respect to a particular variable, that variable is called the independent variable.

So in the case $$\frac{dy}{dx}$$ the$$ x$$ is referred to as the independent variable?

 

[mathmari]

So in the case $$\frac{dy}{dx}$$ the$$ x$$ is referred to as the independent variable?

Yes, that's right!