Is y''=0 included in the solution for y'''=(y'')2?

In summary, The equation y''' = (y'')^2 can be solved using the substitution y'' = p, resulting in the solution y = -(x+c1)ln|x+c1| + c2x + c3. However, it should also be noted that p = y'' = 0 yields the solution y = cx + d, which was not listed as an answer in the given solutions. Additionally, for the equation 2y y'' = (y')^2 + 1, the solution y = c is incorrect and should not be listed.
  • #1
manenbu
103
0

Homework Statement



Solve:
y'''=(y'')2

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Basically easy, use the substitution y'' = p and solve through the equations.
I end up having this:
y=-(x+c1)ln|x+c1| + c2x + c3, which is what I listed in the answers as well.
My question is about p≠0 which I get while solving the first integral.
p=y''=0 is a solution to the equation.
y''=0 means y'=c means y=cx+c
Is this included in the solution? I don't think so, and then it should be listed as a solution as well, but it's not. Am I missing something, or it's already in the first solution?
 
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  • #2
I don't see a choice of constants in your solution yielding y = cx + d. (You don't mean cx + c). But, yes, it is a perfectly good solution as you can test by plugging it into the equation. It should be listed as an answer. If you divided by p in the process of solving the equation, that would explain why the solution was missed. Good work noticing that.
 
  • #3
yes, I meant y = cx + d of course.
Well, in that case that's another mistake in the answer sheet - for the DE:
2y y'' = (y')^2 + 1
they list y = c as an answer, when it is obviously not.
 
  • #4
Yes. You're right about that too.
 

FAQ: Is y''=0 included in the solution for y'''=(y'')2?

1. What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is a mathematical equation that relates an unknown function to its derivatives. It describes how the rate of change of a variable is related to the current value of that variable.

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Differential equations are used in various scientific fields, including physics, engineering, and biology, to model and analyze complex systems. They are particularly useful in studying systems that involve change and interactions between variables.

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