Nonseparable Differential Equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a nonseparable differential equation of the form dy/dx = y + x. Participants explore various methods for finding solutions, including substitutions and integrating factors, while addressing the distinction between particular and general solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the equation is not separable and seeks a solution, attempting a substitution of y = vx but encounters difficulties.
  • Another participant suggests setting u = y + x, transforming the equation into a separable form, du/dx = 1 + u.
  • A participant claims to have found a particular solution, y = e^x - x - 1, and questions its correctness.
  • Another participant acknowledges the methods used but suggests they may lack generality despite their simplicity.
  • There is a discussion about the general solution, with participants clarifying that the general solution includes an arbitrary constant, while the previously mentioned solution is a particular one.
  • One participant asserts that the general solution can be expressed as y(x) = A·e^x - x - 1, emphasizing the importance of correctly incorporating the constant of integration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the methods to solve the differential equation and the distinction between particular and general solutions. However, there is some contention regarding the proper formulation of the general solution and the role of the constant of integration.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the general solution's formulation and the correct placement of the constant of integration, indicating potential limitations in their understanding or application of the methods discussed.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in differential equations, particularly those exploring methods for solving nonseparable equations and understanding the nuances between particular and general solutions.

altcmdesc
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I know that this differential equation is not separable, but is there a way to solve it?

dy/dx=y+x

I've tried a substitution of y=vx:

(dv/dx)x+v=x+vx
(dv/dx)x=x+vx-v
dv/dx=1+v-(v/x)

I'm stuck trying to rewrite that as a product of v and x.

Any help is appreciated!
 
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Set u=y+x,

then you get:
du/dx=dy/dx+1,

whereby your diff.eq reads:

du/dx=1+u, which IS separable.

Alternatively, find an integrating factor to your diff.eq.
 
By using that method, my answer was: eˣ-x-1.

Correct?

Thanks!
 
Of course there are many methods to solve the above equations as they are a system of linear differential equations. The methods solved above are great for their simplicity but not so great in terms of generality.
 
altcmdesc said:
By using that method, my answer was: eˣ-x-1.

Correct?

Thanks!
Why not check it out?

We have: y=e^x-x-1,

whereby:

dy/dx=e^x-1=(e^x-x-1)+x=y+x

so that is indeed A solution.

You still lack the general solution.
 
isn't the general solution, the same thing but with the constant not being defined?

if not then please clarify it for me.
 
AhmedEzz said:
isn't the general solution, the same thing but with the constant not being defined?

if not then please clarify it for me.
Yes it is...but your solution was [itex]y=e^x-x-1[/itex] which is a particular solution. the general sol'n would be [itex]y=e^x-x-1+C[/itex]...C= a constant. Never forget the constant of integration.
 
The general solution is:

[tex]y(x)= A\cdot e^x -x- 1[/tex]

If you set A=1 then you get the particular solution of altcmdesc. However, the general solution is also obtained via the method of Arildno.

Nothing to do with adding a constant just like that, rock.freak667, you have to add it at the right place.
 

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