Elimination of arbitrary constants 2

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    Constants Elimination
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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the elimination of arbitrary constants from equations, specifically addressing two problems involving parameters in linear equations. Participants explore methods for differentiation and manipulation of the equations to achieve this elimination.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the equations $y=mx+\frac{h}{m}$ and $cxy+c^2x+4=0$, seeking guidance on how to eliminate the constants.
  • Another participant suggests differentiating both equations with respect to $x$ as a starting point.
  • There is a claim that differentiating the first equation yields $m^2-my'+h=0$, with some participants questioning the correctness of this result.
  • One participant expresses confusion about which constants are to be eliminated, clarifying that only $m$ should be eliminated while $h$ remains.
  • A different approach is proposed, where one participant suggests solving for $m$ first before differentiating, leading to a new expression involving $m$ and $h$.
  • Another participant confirms that differentiating yields $y'=m$, indicating a realization about the relationship between the variables.
  • Finally, a participant concludes that the answer can be expressed as $y=xy'+\frac{h}{y'}$, indicating a potential resolution to the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit some agreement on the need to differentiate to eliminate constants, but there is disagreement regarding the correctness of specific differentiation results and the treatment of constants. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best method to eliminate the arbitrary constants.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully clarified the assumptions regarding the nature of the parameters $m$ and $h$, nor have they resolved the implications of their differentiation steps. The discussion also lacks consensus on the final forms of the equations after elimination.

bergausstein
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eliminate the arbitrary constant,

1. $\displaystyle y=mx+\frac{h}{m}$ h is a parameter, m to be eliminated.2. $cxy+c^2x+4=0$ eliminate c

I don't know where to start please help me get started. thanks!
 
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What do you get in both problems when you differentiate with respect to $x$?
 
for the first problem I get

$m^2-my'+h=0$ is this correct?
 
bergausstein said:
for the first problem I get

$m^2-my'+h=0$ is this correct?

No, $m$ and $h$ are both constants, right?
 
but only m is to be eliminated not h. I'm confused.

$m^2-my'+x-y+h=0$ is this right?
 
bergausstein said:
but only m is to be eliminated not h. I'm confused.

$m^2-my'+x-y+h=0$ is this right?

I am going to assume that $m$ and $h$ are both parameters, and thus are constants. We are given:

$$y=mx+\frac{h}{m}$$

And so differentiating with respect to $x$, we obtain:

$$y'=m$$
 
To eliminate an arbitrary constant via differentiation, I would solve for that constant first:
\begin{align*}
y&=mx+ \frac{h}{m} \\
my&=m^{2}x+h \\
0&=m^{2}x-my+h \\
m&= \frac{y \pm \sqrt{y^{2}-4xh}}{2x}.
\end{align*}
Now differentiate both sides w.r.t. $x$, holding $y=y(x)$.
 
MarkFL said:
I am going to assume that $m$ and $h$ are both parameters, and thus are constants. We are given:

$$y=mx+\frac{h}{m}$$

And so differentiating with respect to $x$, we obtain:

$$y'=m$$

now I see it.

the answer is $\displaystyle y=xy'+\frac{h}{y'}$
 

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