Integrating Factors for Solving Differential Equations

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves solving a first-order linear differential equation using integrating factors. The original poster presents the equation y' + 2ty = t^3 and discusses their approach to finding the integrating factor and applying it to the equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to find the integrating factor and expresses confusion about the next steps in the solution process. They inquire about a formula that could simplify their work. Other participants suggest focusing on the undifferentiated part of the left-hand side to relate it to the right-hand side of the equation.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the steps involved in applying the integrating factor method. Some participants provide guidance on identifying the correct expressions to differentiate. The original poster expresses frustration with an external tool's feedback but acknowledges their understanding of the process.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions a deadline and issues with an online submission system, indicating potential constraints on their ability to verify their work. There is also a suggestion of a different equation involving t^3y' - (3/t)yt^3 = t^6, which raises further questions about the application of similar methods.

ssb
Messages
119
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



[tex]y' + 2ty = t^3[/tex]

Homework Equations



Integrating factors and variation of parameters

The Attempt at a Solution



Ive solved for m
[tex]M = e^{\int 2t\,dx}[/tex]

[tex]M = e^t^2[/tex] (this is e^t^2, but doesn't look like it in latex)

I multiplied both sides by M

[tex](e^t^2)(y') + (e^t^2)(2ty) = (e^t^2)(t^3)[/tex]

The part I am having trouble with is the next step. I am suppost to find a function so when you take the derivative of that function, it is the same as the left hand side of this problem, or [tex](e^t^2)(y') + (e^t^2)(2ty)[/tex]

Any suggestions? Is there a simple formula you can use that always works in these cases? It seems like I've tried [tex]\frac{d}{dt}(y)(e^t^2)[/tex] but it won't work.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Just pick the undifferentiated part from each term on the left hand side, ie,

[itex]\left( e^{t^2} y \right)' = t^3 e^{t^2}[/itex]
 
bdeln said:
Just pick the undifferentiated part from each term on the left hand side, ie,

[itex]\left( e^{t^2} y \right)' = t^3 e^{t^2}[/itex]

Thats exactly what I've been doing yet webworks is rejecting my work. Let me provide the rest of my steps just to verify:

You know what... since I am over the deadline webworks gives me the option to show answers... my answers I am suppost to be putting in are all jacked up. Looks like the teacher messed up programming it this week for me. I've been doing it right all along! Thanks for the help buddy!
 
What if I had

[tex]t^3y' - (3/t)yt^3 = t^6[/tex]


[tex](?)' = t^6[/tex]


would it be [tex]yt^3[/tex] ?
 
Well, we can check ... [itex](t^3y)' = 3t^2y + t^3y'[/itex], so other than the minus sign, I think you're good.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K