Non-linear ODE with pursuit curves

Let v= u/(1+ u^2) so that u= v/(1- v^2) and u'= (1- v^2)^{-2}v'. The equation becomes x(1- v^2)^{-4}v'^2= (1+ v^2)^{-1} which separates into (1+ v^2)^{-1}dv= (1- v^2)^{-4}dx. You should be able to integrate both of those.In summary, to find an analytical solution to the given ODE, one can use substitution and separation of variables to obtain two simpler equations, which can then be integrated to find the solution.
  • #1
abercrombiems02
114
0
How would one go about finding an analytical solution to the following ODE

note that we are trying to find y(x) subject to...

(x*y'')^2 - (1 + (y')^2) = 0
 
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  • #2
abercrombiems02 said:
How would one go about finding an analytical solution to the following ODE

note that we are trying to find y(x) subject to...

(x*y'')^2 - (1 + (y')^2) = 0

The first thing I notice is that there is no "y" in that equation- just
y" and y'. If you let u= y' then you have the pair of first order equations
(x*u')^2- (1+ u^2)= 0 or
[tex]xu'= \pm\sqrt{1+ u^2}[/tex]
That gives two relatively simple separable equations.
 

1. What is a non-linear ODE?

A non-linear ODE (ordinary differential equation) is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between a function and its derivatives. Unlike linear ODEs, which have a linear relationship between the function and its derivatives, non-linear ODEs have a non-linear relationship, meaning that the function and its derivatives are raised to powers or multiplied together.

2. What are pursuit curves?

Pursuit curves are a type of non-linear ODE that describes the motion of one object chasing another object. The most common example is the pursuit of prey by a predator. The equations for pursuit curves take into account the positions, velocities, and accelerations of both the chaser and the chasee, as well as any external forces acting on the objects.

3. Why are non-linear ODEs with pursuit curves important?

Non-linear ODEs with pursuit curves have many real-world applications, such as modeling animal behavior, predicting the movement of celestial bodies, and designing control systems for robots. They also provide a more accurate representation of complex systems that cannot be described by linear equations.

4. How do scientists solve non-linear ODEs with pursuit curves?

There is no one specific method for solving non-linear ODEs with pursuit curves, as it depends on the specific equations and initial conditions involved. However, some common techniques include using numerical methods, such as Euler's method or Runge-Kutta methods, or using analytical methods, such as separation of variables or substitution techniques.

5. What are some challenges when working with non-linear ODEs with pursuit curves?

Non-linear ODEs with pursuit curves can be challenging to solve analytically, as there is no general method that can be applied to all equations. Additionally, they can exhibit chaotic behavior, making it difficult to predict long-term solutions. They also require precise initial conditions, and small changes in these conditions can result in significantly different outcomes.

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