Difficulty checking the solution of differential equation

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around checking the solution of a differential equation, specifically xy' - 2y = x^3e^x, with the proposed solution y = x^2e^x. Participants are exploring the process of verifying this solution through substitution.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the method of substituting the proposed solution into the differential equation rather than solving for x. There is confusion regarding the necessity of solving for x in this context.

Discussion Status

The conversation indicates a shift in understanding, with some participants recognizing the importance of substitution over solving for x. Guidance has been offered regarding the approach to take, but there is no explicit consensus on the best method yet.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be a misunderstanding about the steps involved in verifying the solution, with some participants questioning the need to solve for x instead of simply substituting the solution into the equation.

asadpasat
Messages
41
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement


The differential equation is xy'-2y= x3ex
Check the solution y=x2 ex

Homework Equations


Just plug in

The Attempt at a Solution


y' = x2ex + 2xex
Having problem solving for x.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Why are you trying to solve for x? Just substitute your solution for y into the differential equation.

Chet
 
asadpasat said:

Homework Statement


The differential equation is xy'-2y= x3ex
Check the solution y=x2 ex

Homework Equations


Just plug in

The Attempt at a Solution


y' = x2ex + 2xex
Having problem solving for x.
Why solve for x ?

Like you said, "Just plug in".
 
omg, got it. thanks a lot
Chestermiller said:
Why are you trying to solve for x? Just substitute your solution for y into the differential equation.

Chet
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K