How can I solve this Bernoulli Equation with a given initial condition?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves solving a Bernoulli equation of the form x^2y' + 2xy = 5y^3, with an initial condition. Participants are exploring the transformation of the equation and the implications of the Bernoulli form.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the transformation of the original equation using the substitution v = y^-2 and the subsequent steps to derive a new equation for v. Questions arise regarding the dependence of the constant C on x and the nature of particular and general solutions.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide guidance on identifying particular solutions and clarify the relationship between general and particular solutions in the context of linear equations. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of linearity in the Bernoulli equation framework.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of Bernoulli equations, particularly the distinction between linear and nonlinear forms, and how this affects solution strategies. There is a focus on ensuring clarity in the definitions and assumptions related to the equations being discussed.

CaptainJames
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Homework Statement


x^2y' + 2xy = 5y^3

Homework Equations


Bernoulli Equation

The Attempt at a Solution


so... v=y^-2, y=v^(-1/2) y' = -1/2v'v^(-3/2)

moving everything over...
y'/y^3 + 2/(xy^2) = 5/x^2

and plugging everything in...
-1/2v' + 2v/x = 5/x^2
v' - 4v/x = -10/x^2

v' - 4v/x = 0
dv/dx = 4v/x
dv/v = 4dx/x
ln v = 4 ln x + C
v = C(x)x^4
v' = C'(x)x^4 + C(x)4x^3

C'(x)x^4 + C(x)4x^3 - 4C(x)x^4/x = 5/x^2
C'(x)x^4 = 5/x^2
C'(x) = 5/x^6
C(x) = -x^-5 + C

v = (-x^-5 + C)x^4

y = 1/(v)^(1/2)

y^2 = 1/((-x^-5 + C)x^4)
... which is wrong. Could someone point me in the right direction?
 
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CaptainJames said:

Homework Statement


x^2y' + 2xy = 5y^3

Homework Equations


Bernoulli Equation

The Attempt at a Solution


so... v=y^-2, y=v^(-1/2) y' = -1/2v'v^(-3/2)

moving everything over...
y'/y^3 + 2/(xy^2) = 5/x^2

and plugging everything in...
-1/2v' + 2v/x = 5/x^2
v' - 4v/x = -10/x^2

v' - 4v/x = 0
dv/dx = 4v/x
dv/v = 4dx/x
ln v = 4 ln x + C
v = C(x)x^4

I think you are doing great up to the last line here. Why the x dependence in C?
I would just say v=C*x^4. This the general solution to the homogeneous equation v'-4v/x=0. Now you just want to add this to a particular solution (any one) of the inhomogeneous equation v' - 4v/x = -10/x^2. Can you find one?
 
I think 2/x is a particular solution?

cause... you got, let's see...

-2/x^2 - 4*2/x^2 = -10/x^2

Okay so now what...??

Cx^4 + 2/x?

v=Cx^4 + 2/x

y = v^(-1/2)

y^2 = 1/(Cx^4+2/x)

or...

y^2 = x/(Cx^5 + 2) which is... CORRECT! thanks a bunch!

So all you have to do is find the general solution, then a particular solution? When is this applicable (only in cases where there is one derivative??)?
 
Last edited:
Finding a "general" solution (to the corresponding homogeneous equation), then adding a specific solution (to the entire equation), works only for linear equations. The Bernoulli equation is not linear (because of the y3) but the equation you get for v,v' - 4v/x = -10/x2 is linear.
 
Nope, any number of derivatives. You only need that the ODE is linear. So you CAN add solutions and still get a solution.
 

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