Find integrating factor and solve the equation 3

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a first-order linear differential equation using an integrating factor. The original poster presents the equation y' + y = e^x with an initial condition y(0) = 1.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to find the integrating factor and solve the differential equation, detailing their steps and calculations. They express confusion over the discrepancy between their result and the expected answer. Other participants point out potential algebraic mistakes and discuss when to determine the constant of integration.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants identifying errors in the original poster's calculations and clarifying the process of solving for the constant of integration. There is no explicit consensus on the resolution, but guidance is being provided regarding the algebraic steps involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the implications of initial conditions and the integration constant within the context of the problem, which may influence the final solution.

naspek
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y' + y = e^x ; y(0) = 1

1st, i calculate the integrating factor...
u(x) = e^x

times the integrating factor with DE...

y'e^x + ye^x = e^2x

dy/dx e^x + ye^x = e^2x

d/dx ye^x = e^2x

ye^x = ∫ e^2x dx
...= 1/2 e^2x + C

y = 1/2 e^x + C

the problem here, i didn't get the answer given which is..
y = 1/2 (e^x + e^-x)
 
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You made an algebra mistake in the last step when solving for y.
 
ok.. here is my mistake...
ye^x = ∫ e^2x dx
...= 1/2 e^2x + C

so.. when am i going to solve C value?
 
naspek said:
ok.. here is my mistake...
ye^x = ∫ e^2x dx
...= 1/2 e^2x + C

so.. when am i going to solve C value?

Up to there is correct. Your error was in the very last step you wrote when you solved for y.

You can solve for C any time you want. Most of the time, it's done as the final step.
 

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