The discussion revolves around a differential equation given by dy/dx = 2xcos(y) - xy^3, with participants exploring the use of the slope field method and separation of variables as potential approaches to solving it.
The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations of the problem being explored. Some participants have provided hints and suggestions, while others seek further clarification on the context and methods applicable to the problem.
The original poster mentions that the problem is from AP calculus, specifically on the topic of differential equations and slope fields, and indicates a lack of context beyond the homework assignment itself.
Hello MarkZone. Welcome to PF.MarkZone said:Homework Statement
dy/dx=2xcos(y)-xy^3[/B]Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
Can somebody help me solve this equation please? I tried to separate the variables, but it did not work.
That is separated. Right?Mark44 said:@SammyS, after an edit, the OP now has separated the DE into
$$\frac{dy}{2\cos(y) - y^3} = xdx$$
I don't see how factoring sheds any light here. Maybe I'm missing something.
Right. I agree.Mark44 said:From the thread title, the goal is to solve the DE, but in the original (unedited) post, the OP said he was not able to separate the DE. I agree that the DE is now separated, but my question pertained to how to solve the DE.
Oh It was jist from my math hw. There is no context for this.LCKurtz said:@MarkZone: Can you give us the context where this DE came from?
Of course there is context. What topics were you covering in your text in the section where this problem was given? What approaches were you expected to try?MarkZone said:Oh It was jist from my math hw. There is no context for this.
It is a AP calculus problem on the topic "Differential Equations & Slope fields." The original question asks me to solve this by the separation of variables method. That is all I know and my teacher does not know how to solve this either.LCKurtz said:Of course there is context. What topics were you covering in your text in the section where this problem was given? What approaches were you expected to try?
The method of slope fields gives you a way to sketch the solutions. You don't necessarily actually find an analytic solution.MarkZone said:It is a AP calculus problem on the topic "Differential Equations & Slope fields." The original question asks me to solve this by the separation of variables method. That is all I know and my teacher does not know how to solve this either.