Intergrating Factor - dy/dt = -2ty + 4e^-t^2

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a first-order linear differential equation using the method of integrating factors. The equation presented is dy/dt = -2ty + 4e^-t^2, and participants are exploring the steps necessary to find the general solution.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the integration process and the manipulation of exponential functions. There are attempts to clarify the integration of terms involving e^t^2 and e^-t^2, as well as questions about the treatment of constants during integration.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the integration steps, with some participants providing guidance on handling constants and fractions. Uncertainty about the integration process and the final expression for y(t) is evident, with no clear consensus reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion regarding the integration constant and the simplification of terms, indicating a need for further clarification on these aspects. The original poster's uncertainty about their approach is also noted.

killersanta
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Homework Statement


Solve the differential equations [Find the general solution y(t)=KYh(t) + Yp (t)]. Use the method of finding the integrating factor.

dy/dt = -2ty + 4e^-t^2


The Attempt at a Solution



S = intergrat

dy/dt = -2ty + 4e^-t^2
dy/dt + 2ty = 4e^-t^2

P(t) = 2t
b(t) = 4e^-t^2

U(t) = e^(S 2t dt)
U(t) = e ^t^2

Y(t) = 1 / e^t^2 * S e^t^2 * 4e^-t^2

I guess I just don't know how to intergrat e^t^2 * 4e^-t^2
 
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[tex]e^{t^2} e^{-t^2} = 1[/tex]

, as one function is the inverse of the other.
 
Would the 4 go down to? Like this:

[tex] e^{t^2} / 4e^{t^2}[/tex]

Wouldn't that leave you with 1/4?
 
No, with a 4. The 4 is in the numerator, if you write [itex]4e^{-t^2}[/itex] as a fraction.
 
[tex]int_/ 4*e^{t^2} / e^{t^2} dt[/tex]

Then, the [tex]e^{t^2}[/tex] cancel out and you are left with [tex]int_/ 4 dt[/tex] which is just 4t. Is this right?
 
You should be more certain of yourself. You dropped the integration constant.
 
oh, yeah... I meant 4t + c...So the whole answer is [tex]y(t) = {4t + C}/e^{t^2}[/tex] (The [tex]e^{t^2}[/tex] is under both)...Yeah, I second guess myself way too much. Most the time, after I ask for help, I realize how easy a problem was and can't believe I ask for help.
 

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