ODE's, Find all functions f that help satisfy the equation

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding all functions f that satisfy the equation \(\left(\int f(x)dx\right)\left(\int\frac{1}{f(x)}dx\right) = -1\), which falls under the subject area of ordinary differential equations (ODEs).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various approaches, including differentiation of the given equation and consideration of specific function types, such as exponential and trigonometric functions. There is uncertainty about how to proceed with proving potential solutions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their thoughts on possible functions and the challenges they face in proving their validity. Some participants express confidence in certain functions, while others are exploring different ideas without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants note difficulties in proving or disproving certain functions and mention the need for functions that exhibit specific properties when integrated. There is an acknowledgment of the limitations of standard polynomial functions in this context.

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Homework Statement


Find all functions f that help satisfy the equation
[itex]\left(\int f(x)dx\right)\left(\int\frac{1}{f(x)}dx\right) = -1[/itex]


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not quite sure what to do here. When I differentiate I get [itex]f(x)\int1/ f(x) dx + 1/f(x)\int f(x) dx[/itex] which doesn't seem to help if I keep differentiating. I'm kinda stuck on this problem so any help is appreciated. Thanks
 
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I've been looking at this and trying to figure it out.

At first, I was thinking of a trig function, but after more thinking that seems to be out. Now I'm thinking something like [itex]f(x) = e^x[/itex], though I haven't really tried to work it out past that part, just an idea for you.
 
The answer clearly seems to be f(x) = e**x I just can't get to proving it.
 
That's the main trouble I was having. I get how to prove that it's not other functions by solving [itex]\int x^n * \int \frac{1}{x^n}[/itex], which shows that a standard function to degree n will always result in something such as [itex]\frac{-x^{n+1}}{n+1}[/itex], if [itex]|n|>1[/itex]. Knowing this shows that you must have a function that repeats itself when integrated, such as a trig function or [itex]e^x[/itex]. This is the closest thing that I've gotten to so far, but it still isn't much of a mathematical proof at all.
 

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