How can I improve my understanding of solving differential equations?

AI Thread Summary
To improve understanding of solving differential equations, the discussion centers on a specific problem involving the equation [y(y^3 - x)]dx + [x (y^3 + x)]dy = 0. The key challenge is transforming it into the form dy/dx + P(x)y = Q(x), with participants suggesting methods like using integrating factors and checking for exactness. The user expresses frustration with not being able to find an integrating factor that equalizes the partial derivatives, indicating a struggle with foundational concepts in differential equations. Suggestions include exploring exact differential equations and utilizing differentials to rearrange the equation. Overall, the discussion highlights the need for deeper comprehension of integrating factors and exact equations in solving differential equations.
Beez
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Hello, I have tried to solve the following problem but did not succeed to do so.

[y(y^3 - x)]dx + [x (y^3 + x)]dy = 0
I sense that the key factor here is (y^3 - x ) and (y^3 +x), but could not figure out how to lead the equation to

dy/dx + P(x)y = Q(x) form.

The general answer for the problem is 2xy^3 - x^2 = Cy^2.

Once I can change the equation to dy/dx + P(x)y = Q(x) form, I can do the rest (probably anybody can...)

Thanks for your help in advance.
 
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This is of the form f(xy)ydx +F(xy)xdy=0
here the Integrating factor is ::
\frac{1}{xy[f(xy)-F(xy)]}
and general Integral equation is ::
\int \frac{f(xy)+F(xy)}{f(xy)-F(xy)} \frac{d(xy)}{xy} + log\frac{x}{y} = c
 
Beez said:
[y(y3 - x)]dx + [x (y3 + x)]dy = 0
that looks awfully a lot like exact DE: you'll have to get partial derivatives and the whole nine yards. Try that.
 
Well , there is an alternative if you use differentials
now
d(xy)= ydx +xdy
and
d(\frac{y}{x}) = \frac{xdy-ydx}{x^2}

Here u can rearrange ur diff eqn to

:: y3 d(xy) + x3d(y/x)=0
divide by y3 u will get the required answer after integrating
 
Exact D.E.

I believe it is an exact DE since I have just learned that part. But when I did
\partial M (x, y) / \partial y = 4y^3 - x and
\partial N (x, y) / \partial x = y^3 + 2x so they are not the same.

But I could not find integrating facutor to make their answers equal. What should I do now?
 
I will try that

Thank you "himanshu121". I will try that for now to see if I can understand that formula.


Well, I couldn't get it.

I have just started this differential equation class (independent). I thought I understood them well. However, when it comes to solve problems, I am experiencing a hard time. For example, this equation, I could not see why it Have some suggestion to improve my understanding?
 
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