How to Solve the Separable Differential Equation $y'=x^4y^4$?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the separable differential equation $y' = x^4 y^4$. Participants explore methods for separation of variables and integration, while also addressing potential solutions and the implications of lost solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the equation and attempts to express $y$ in terms of $y'$ and $x$.
  • Another participant correctly separates the variables and sets up the integrals for both sides of the equation.
  • A third participant provides the integration steps and arrives at a solution involving a constant of integration.
  • A later reply questions the origin of a specific coefficient in the solution, suggesting a possible error.
  • Another participant points out that the trivial solution $y \equiv 0$ was lost during the separation process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the solution process, as there are questions about specific steps and the implications of lost solutions. Multiple viewpoints on the integration steps and the handling of the trivial solution remain evident.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the integration constants and the treatment of the trivial solution, which may affect the completeness of the solution set.

karush
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Solve the separable differential equation
$\displaystyle y'=x^4y^4$
Solve for $y$ if possible.

$\displaystyle
y=\frac{{y'}^{(1/4)}}{x}$
Not sure ?
 
Last edited:
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$\frac{dy}{dx}=x^4y^4$

$\frac{1}{y^4}\,dy=x^4\,dx$

$\int\frac{1}{y^4}\,dy=\int x^4\,dx$
 
$$\frac{dy}{dx}=x^4y^4$$

$$\frac{1}{y^4}\,dy=x^4\,dx$$

$$\int\frac{1}{y^4}\,dy=\int x^4\,dx$$

$$-\frac13y^{-3}=\frac15x^5+c_1$$

$$y^{-3}=-\frac35\left(x^5+c_2\right)$$

$$y=\left[-\frac35\left(x^5+c_2\right)\right]^{-1/3}$$

$$y=-\left[\frac35\left(x^5+c_2\right)\right]^{-1/3}$$
 
Last edited:
Where does the $-\frac{1}{3}$ inside the $\left[\right]$ come from
 
Last edited:
It comes from a typo. :o It should be $-\frac35$.
 
During the process of separation of variables (dividing through by $y^4$), the trivial solution:

$$y\equiv0$$

was lost. :)
 

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