Find the general solution of the given differential equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the general solution to a specific first-order linear ordinary differential equation (ODE). Participants explore various methods for solving the equation, including the use of integrating factors and transformations to standard forms.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about how to approach the differential equation and considers using an integrating factor.
  • Another participant suggests dividing the equation by \(1+t^2\) to put it in standard linear form and computes the integrating factor.
  • There is a discussion about the correct form of the integrating factor, with some participants proposing \( \mu(t) = 2\ln(t^2 + 1) \) and others correcting it to \( \mu(t) = (t^2 + 1)^2 \).
  • Participants discuss the transformation of the left side of the ODE into the derivative of a product and confirm the correct formulation of the ODE.
  • A participant proposes a solution involving the arctangent function, which is acknowledged as correct by others.
  • There are also side discussions about LaTeX formatting and personal updates from participants regarding their studies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While there is agreement on the final solution proposed by one participant, there are multiple viewpoints on the correct form of the integrating factor and the steps leading to the solution. The discussion contains both confirmations and corrections, indicating that some aspects remain contested.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty regarding the initial steps of solving the ODE, and there is a reliance on specific mathematical transformations that may not be universally agreed upon.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and individuals interested in differential equations, particularly those studying calculus or related fields, may find this discussion beneficial for understanding the problem-solving process and the application of integrating factors.

shamieh
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Find the general solution of the given differential equation..

$$(1+t^2)y' + 4ty = (1+t^2)^{-2}$$

I'm kind of confused here on what to do...

Do I want to do something like $$e ^{\int4t} dt$$ and then multiply that through on both sides or do I need to do something different here..I'm not really sure how to approach this one so that's why I'm kind of beating around the bush if you will.
 
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I would first divide through by $$1+t^2$$ to write the ODE in standard linear form, and observe that in doing so no trivial solutions are being lost:

$$\d{y}{t}+\frac{4t}{t^2+1}y=\left(t^2+1\right)^{-3}$$

Next, compute your integrating factor:

$$\mu(t)=\exp\left(\int\frac{4t}{t^2+1}\,dt\right)$$

What do you get for this factor?
 
$$mew = 2\ln(t^2 + 1)$$ correct?
 
Last edited:
shamieh said:
$$mew = 2ln(t^2 + 1)$$ correct?

Not quite...and use the code \mu for the Greek letter $\mu$...you should get:

$$\mu(t)=\exp\left(2\ln\left(t^2+1\right)\right)=\exp\left(\ln\left(\left(t^2+1\right)^2\right)\right)=\left(t^2+1\right)^2$$

Now, applying this factor, what is your ODE? If we computed the factor correctly, the left side of the ODE will be the differentiation of a product...can you make this transformation?
 
so the left side will be $$(t^2+1)^2y $$ correct?
 
shamieh said:
so the left side will be $$(t^2+1)^2y $$ correct?

No, the left side will be:

$$\left(t^2+1\right)^2\d{y}{t}+4t\left(t^2+1\right)y=\frac{d}{dt}\left(\left(t^2+1\right)^2y\right)$$

Now your ODE is:

$$\frac{d}{dt}\left(\left(t^2+1\right)^2y\right)=\frac{1}{t^2+1}$$

So just integrate both sides with respect to $t$...what do you get?
 
$$y = \frac{\arctan(t) + c}{(1+t^2)^2}$$
 
Last edited:
shamieh said:
$$y = \frac{arctan(t) + c}{(1+t^2)^2}$$

Correct! (Yes)

Another $\LaTeX$ tip:

Precede functions, like logarithms, trig functions and their inverses, and hyperbolic functions, etc with a backslash. This will prevent them from being italicized and emphasize that they are functions rather than a string of variables. :D
 
Thanks! Will do. Haven't been on the forum in some time and have forgotten LaTeX. I just started Calculus IV today and it's pretty interesting. I'll be on here for Discrete Mathematics help as well. Site looks awesome since I was last here btw.
 
  • #10
shamieh said:
Thanks! Will do. Haven't been on the forum in some time and have forgotten LaTeX. I just started Calculus IV today and it's pretty interesting. I'll be on here for Discrete Mathematics help as well. Site looks awesome since I was last here btw.

Yes, we've been pretty busy making changes...server upgrade, PHP upgrade, vBulletin software upgrades, thanks system upgrade, and a bunch of styling changes...I am happy all of our work is noticeable. :D
 

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