How do I use substitution to solve a differential equation with a square root?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a differential equation involving a square root, specifically dy/dx = 4x + 4x/square root of (16-x^2). The subject area pertains to differential equations and substitution methods.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts a substitution method using u = 16 - x^2, but expresses uncertainty about the correctness of their approach. Some participants question the accuracy of the substitution and suggest clarifying the relationship between du and dx. Others propose exploring partial fractions as a potential method, although this is met with skepticism regarding its applicability due to the form of the equation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing feedback on the original poster's approach and suggesting alternative methods. There is no explicit consensus on the best path forward, but various lines of reasoning are being explored, indicating a productive exchange of ideas.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential issues with the original substitution and the need for careful handling of differentials. There is also mention of the original poster's confusion regarding the integration process and the form of the integrals involved.

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Homework Statement



Solve the differential equation.

dy/dx = 4x + 4x/square root of (16-x^2)

Homework Equations



Substituting using U...

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure if that's what I am supposed to do, but I tried using the U substitution...

4x + 4x/square root of (16-x^2)
u = 16 - x^2
du = -2x
-2du = 4x (I multiplied both sides by 2 and brought the negative over)

-2 (integration sign [the S]) du + du/square root of u

Take the anti-derivative...

-2 x (u)^(-1/2) + C (changed square root into a power)

-2 x (16-x^2) + C

Unfortunately, that is not the answer they give me. I'm kinda stuck.. am I going in the right direction?
 
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Everything fell apart right after you made the substitution. Stating that "du = -2x" is incorrect. Rather, du = -2x dx. Then, you find an expression for "dx", sub that in, and integrate with respect to u.

Edit: It's easier to split the integral into a sum of two integrals, so it's the integral of 4x + the other integral.
 
Last edited:
dy/dx = 4x + 4x/square root of (16-x^2)

I'd imagine that partial fractions would help here.

It would be a lot easier, I'll have a play with it later. Time for work. Just a thought though.

[tex]\int 4x+=>[/tex]

[tex]2x^2+C[/tex]

[tex]\int \frac {4x}{\sqrt(16-x^2)}=>[/tex]

Actually from here just substitute du from here.
 
Last edited:
No, not partial fractions with that "x" in the numerator.

Let u= 16- x2. Then du= -2x dx so that -2du= 4xdx.
 

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