Rearranging separable equations

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the separable equation dy/dx = (y-4x)/(x-y). The user successfully rewrites the equation as dy/dx = (y/x - 4)/(1-y/x) by introducing the substitution v = y/x. In part b, they derive dy/dx = d(xv)/dx = x(dv/dx), but struggle with part c, where they need to show dy/dx = v + x(dv/dx). The resolution highlights the application of the product rule in differentiation, clarifying the additional v term in the equation.

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  • Understanding of separable differential equations
  • Familiarity with the product rule in calculus
  • Knowledge of variable substitution techniques
  • Basic differentiation skills
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  • Study the product rule in calculus for differentiation
  • Explore variable substitution methods in solving differential equations
  • Practice additional examples of separable equations
  • Learn about the implications of introducing new variables in differential equations
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Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on differential equations, as well as educators seeking to clarify the product rule and variable substitution techniques.

thedude36
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I'm having difficulty with the question in the pic provided. (http://i.imgur.com/Fg7CHoY.png). Basically the equation I am given is

dy/dx = (y-4x)/(x-y)​

and it walks through the steps needed to solve it, however, I am supposed to show how to arrive at each step given. I've gotten part a, where it asks to show that the above equation can be written as

dy/dx = (y/x - 4)/(1-y/x)​

and, introducing v=y/x, rewrite dy/dx in terms of v, x, and dv/dx. What I get for part b is

dy/dx = d(xv)/dx = x(dv/dx)​

however, on part c, it looks like I'm supposed to get

dy/dx = v+x(dv/dx)​

I'm not sure where the additional v term comes from. If anyone could help me out, i would really appreciate it!
 
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thedude36 said:
dy/dx = d(xv)/dx = x(dv/dx)
dy/dx = v+x(dv/dx)​
It's just the product rule. How do you differentiate f(x)g(x)?
 
I can't believe it was that simple - I had been staring at it for hours. Thank you!
 

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