Seperable Differnetial Equation Question?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving separable differential equations, specifically the equation xy' = 2y. Participants are exploring the general solution and explicit solution methods while addressing potential errors in their approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants share their attempts at solving the differential equation, questioning the correctness of their steps and the presence of constants in their solutions. Some express confusion over logarithmic manipulation and the process of taking antilogs. Others discuss a different problem involving y' = (1+y^2)e^x, raising concerns about the validity of their rearrangements and integrations.

Discussion Status

There is an active exchange of ideas, with participants providing guidance on logarithmic properties and integration techniques. Some participants are questioning their assumptions and the steps taken in their calculations, indicating a productive exploration of the topic without reaching a consensus on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of integrating and manipulating differential equations, with some expressing uncertainty about the application of mathematical rules and the handling of constants. There is a focus on ensuring the correct use of absolute values and the implications of rearranging terms.

MathWarrior
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Find General Solution of the Differential Equation If Possible Find Explicit Solution

Problem:
xy'=2y


My attempt at solving:
xy'=2y

(1/2y)*x*y'=0

1/2 integral 1/y dy = integral of 1/x dx

1/2 * ln |y| = ln |x|

I am not sure If I did this right? I am just wondering if this is correct or if I messed up somewhere.
 
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MathWarrior said:
Find General Solution of the Differential Equation If Possible Find Explicit Solution

Problem:
xy'=2y


My attempt at solving:
xy'=2y

(1/2y)*x*y'=0

Where did that zero come from? Don't you mean 1?

1/2 integral 1/y dy = integral of 1/x dx

1/2 * ln |y| = ln |x|

OK, but you're missing a constant term. I'd suggest putting the constant term as [itex]\frac{1}{2}\ln|k|[/itex] on the RHS - you'll see why when you simplify the expression.

Of course, you need to simplify the expression by taking antilogs, etc.
 
I was able to get the equation to

ln(y) = 2ln(x)+C

I am rather lost on how to get rid of the logarithm.

How do you do an anti-log?
 
MathWarrior said:
I was able to get the equation to

ln(y) = 2ln(x)+C

I am rather lost on how to get rid of the logarithm.

How do you do an anti-log?

Remember to keep the absolute value terms (|y| and |x|).

Start by simplifying that 2ln x term with a rule of logs, namely [itex]n\log{x} = \log{x^n}[/itex].

Then take e^ (e to the power of) both sides. Remember the rules of exponents, i.e. a^(b+c) = (a^b).(a^c).

You should now have eliminated the logs, and have an equation with only |y| on the LHS and a single term in terms of |x| on the RHS. Now you should be able to see why I advised you put the constant in that particular form. But no matter, just replace that constant expression with another of your choosing, since it's an arbitrary constant after all.

Now remove the modulus on both sides. Keep in mind that |-x| = |x|, so be careful with this step.
 
I managed to figure out that one but now I am lost on this one...

I figured out how this one is done but I don't understand why I couldn't do the problem the way I originally tried to solve it.

The problem is:
y'=(1+y^2)*e^x

I went and distributed the e^x's
y' = e^x + y^2*e^x

moving y^2 over by division:
y^-2*dy/dx = e^x+e^x
y^-2*dy/dx = 2e^x

and got after rearranging:
y^-2dy = 2e^x dx

Did the integrals of both sides

Ended up with:
-y^-1 = 2e^x+C

but after you re-arrange its nothing like the solution that it should be of:
tan(e^x+C)Why didn't this work?
 
You have to be careful
y' = e^x + y^2*e^x
≠ y^-2*dy/dx = e^x+e^x
 

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