Separation of variables and the chain rule

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the chain rule in the context of the first-order ordinary differential equation (ODE) given by the equation ydy/dx = x^2. Participants explore how to manipulate this equation, particularly focusing on the separation of variables method and the role of differentials.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks how the chain rule is applied to derive the equation ydy = x^2dx from the original ODE.
  • Another participant suggests that the equation can be solved by separating variables and integrating both sides, but is unsure if this addresses the original question.
  • A participant expresses confusion about the application of the chain rule specifically in this context.
  • It is noted that the transformation to ydy = x^2dx is not a result of the chain rule but rather the defining property of differentials.
  • One participant proposes an alternative approach using the chain rule to differentiate y^2, leading to an integral form, but this is not directly addressing the original question about separation of variables.
  • Another participant clarifies that multiplying both sides by dx is the correct step, rather than applying the chain rule.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the application of the chain rule, with some asserting it is not applicable while others attempt to connect it to the problem. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific role of the chain rule in this context.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of clarity regarding the definitions and properties of differentials and the chain rule, which may affect participants' understanding of the problem. The discussion also highlights the potential for confusion between different mathematical techniques.

Martyn Arthur
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TL;DR
Application of chain rule
Hi; given the equation ydy/dx=x^2 how is the chain rule applied to result in ydy =x^2dx?
Thanks
 
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What I know is that is a 1st order ODE can be solved by 'Seperating the Variables' method. So, #ydy=x^2dx# just take the integral of both side.

Is that what you meant in the OP?
 
sorry no; I don't understand the actual application of the chain rule to produce the result
 
Ok, I believe the experts are coming along to help out.
 
Martyn Arthur said:
TL;DR Summary: Application of chain rule

Hi; given the equation ydy/dx=x^2 how is the chain rule applied to result in ydy =x^2dx?
Thanks
That's not the chain rule. That's the defining property of the differentials ##dx## and ##dy##.
 
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You could use the chain rule as follows:
$$\frac d {dx}\big (y^2\big ) = 2y \frac{dy}{dx} = 2x^2$$$$\implies y^2 = \int 2x^2 dx$$
 
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\begin{split}<br /> y\frac{dy}{dx} &amp;= x^2 \\<br /> \int y\frac{dy}{dx} \,dx &amp;= \int x^2 \,dx \end{split} The left hand side can be integrated by substitution, also known as the "!inverse chain rule" since <br /> \int_a^b g&#039;(f(x))f&#039;(x)\,dx = \int_a^b (g \circ f)&#039;(x) \,dx = g(f(b)) - g(f(a)) = \int_{f(a)}^{f(b)} g&#039;(y)\,dy by the chain rule and the fundamental theorem.
 
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Martyn Arthur said:
Hi; given the equation ydy/dx=x^2 how is the chain rule applied to result in ydy =x^2dx?
No chain rule at all -- what they did was to multiply both sides of the equation by dx.
 
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ah; thanks
 

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