First Order Homogeneous Differential Equations

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving first-order homogeneous differential equations, specifically the equations \(\frac{du}{dx} = \frac{4u-2x}{u+x}\) and \(\frac{du}{dx} = \frac{xu+u^{2}}{x^{2}}\). The first equation can be approached using the substitution \(y = u + x\), leading to a transformed equation \(\frac{dy}{dx} = 5 - \frac{6x}{y}\). For the second equation, the substitution \(y = \frac{u}{x}\) is recommended to simplify the problem and make it separable, facilitating the solution process.

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Homework Statement



Find the general solution of the following homogeneous differential equations:

(i) \frac{du}{dx} = \frac{4u-2x}{u+x}
(ii) \frac{du}{dx} = \frac{xu+u^{2}}{x^{2}}

(You may express your solution as a function of u and x together)

Homework Equations



There are no relevant equations to this solution

The Attempt at a Solution



(i) \frac{du}{dx} = 4 - \frac{6x}{u+x}
I could then use the substition y=u+x with dy/dx = du/dx + 1 to give:
\frac{dy}{dx} = 5 - \frac{6x}{y}.
Now I'm really lost as shouldn't the y be on the top or am I missing something really stupid here?

(ii) Similar problem to above - should get it from (i) but a hint would go a long way.
 
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The usual trick in the homogeneous case it to use the substitution y=u/x. Did you try that? It should make it separable.
 
Many thanks, using a more appropriate substitution helps a lot. The second equation then just fell into place for me as a result.
 

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