Non-linear differential equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the solution of the non-linear differential equation \( y' = 1 + y^2 \) with the initial condition \( \psi(0) = 0 \). Participants explore the existence interval of the solution and the implications of the function \( \psi(x) = \tan x \) within that context.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that the solution to the initial value problem is \( \psi(x) = \tan x \) and discusses the existence interval as \( (-\frac{\pi}{2}, \frac{\pi}{2}) \).
  • Another participant questions whether the existence interval refers to the domain of the function and suggests it might be \( \mathbb{R} \), but later acknowledges the restrictions due to the definition of \( \tan x \).
  • Some participants clarify that the existence interval refers to the maximal interval within which the differential equation is satisfied, not the range of \( y \).
  • There is a discussion about whether the existence interval must be a single interval or if it could be a union of intervals.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of verifying the solution to the differential equation as a good practice.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the existence interval is \( (-\frac{\pi}{2}, \frac{\pi}{2}) \) and that it pertains to the values of \( x \) for which the solution is valid. However, there is some disagreement regarding the interpretation of the existence interval and whether it can consist of multiple intervals.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the definitions and implications of the existence interval, particularly in relation to the domain of the function \( y(x) = \tan x \) and the nature of the differential equation's solutions.

evinda
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Hello! (Wave)

I want to find the solution $\psi$ of the non-linear differential equation $y'=1+y^2$ that satisfies the condition $\psi(0)=0$. (Notice that the solution $\psi$ exists only for $- \frac{\pi}{2}< x < \frac{\pi}{2}$)

We notice that: $(tan^{-1})'(x)=\frac{1}{1+x^2} (\star) \left( -\frac{\pi}{2}<x< \frac{\pi}{2} \right)$.

So if $\psi$ is the solution of the initial value problem

$\left\{\begin{matrix}
y'=1+y^2\\ \\
y(0)=0
\end{matrix}\right.$

and thus $\psi$ exists at an interval that contains $0$, then for each $x$ that belongs to the interval $I$ of the solution $\psi$ we have:

$$\psi'(x)= 1+\psi^2(x) \ \ \forall x \in I$$

or equivalently $\frac{\psi'(x)}{1+ \psi^2(x)}=1$.

From the relation $(\star)$ we have $(tan^{-1} \psi(t))'=1 \ \ \forall t \in I$.

We integrate the last relation from $0$ to $x$ ($ \ \forall x \in I$) and we have:$$tan^{-1} \psi(x)- \tan^{-1} \psi(0)=x \ \ \forall x \in I \Rightarrow \psi(x)= \tan x \ \ \forall x \in I$$

$\psi(x)$ has as maximal existence interval the interval $\left( - \frac{\pi}{2}, \frac{\pi}{2}\right)$ and we can easily verify that $\psi(x)= \tan x$ satisfies the initial value problem $\left\{\begin{matrix}
y'=1+y^2\\ \\
y(0)=0
\end{matrix}\right.$.Firstly, having found the solution $\psi(x)= \tan x$ do we have to verify it? (Thinking)Also with existence interval is the domain of the function meant? If so, isn't it $\mathbb{R}$ ? Or am I wrong? (Thinking)
 
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evinda said:
Also with existence interval is the domain of the function meant? If so, isn't it $\mathbb{R}$ ? Or am I wrong? (Thinking)
Th existence interval ought to mean the (maximal) interval within which the differential equation is satisfied. That interval has to be $(-\frac\pi2, \frac\pi2).$ It cannot be the whole of $\mathbb{R}$ because the function $\tan x$ is not defined at $\pm\frac\pi2.$
 
Opalg said:
Th existence interval ought to mean the (maximal) interval within which the differential equation is satisfied. That interval has to be $(-\frac\pi2, \frac\pi2).$ It cannot be the whole of $\mathbb{R}$ because the function $\tan x$ is not defined at $\pm\frac\pi2.$

So is the existence interval the range of $y$ such that the latter satisfies the differential equation? :confused:
 
evinda said:
Firstly, having found the solution $\psi(x)= \tan x$ do we have to verify it? (Thinking)

An excellent habit to get into. Checking your work should be routine. The great thing about DE's is that, usually, it's pretty straight-forward to check whether a candidate solution actually does solve the DE.
 
evinda said:
So is the existence interval the range of $y$ such that the latter satisfies the differential equation? :confused:
No, it's the interval of $x$ for which the function $y(x)$ satisfies the differential equation.
 
Opalg said:
No, it's the interval of $x$ for which the function $y(x)$ satisfies the differential equation.

So is it the domain of $y(x)= \tan x$? (Thinking)
Or do we get also other restrictions?
 
Opalg said:
No, it's the interval of $x$ for which the function $y(x)$ satisfies the differential equation.

Does it have to be one interval and not the union of intervals?
 

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