Solve Differential Equation: dy/dx = dt

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    Differentiation
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the equation dy = dx/dt and whether it can be solved for a relationship between y and x. Participants explore the nature of the equation, its validity, and the implications of having a differential on one side and a derivative on the other.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the validity of the equation dy = dx/dt, noting that it combines different orders of mathematical objects and cannot be equal.
  • Others express confusion about the equation's form, stating they have not encountered such a combination of differentials and derivatives before.
  • A participant suggests modifying the equation to dy = k dx/dt, proposing that it might then be possible to find a solution for y in terms of x or vice versa.
  • Another participant challenges the notion that a solution exists, emphasizing that the equation is meaningless due to the differing types of objects involved.
  • One participant asserts that any two quantities presented with an equality should have a solution, despite the objections raised.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the validity of the equation and whether a solution can be found. Multiple competing views remain regarding the nature of the equation and its implications.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in understanding the mathematical framework being used, particularly regarding the definitions of differentials and derivatives. There are unresolved questions about the context in which the equation arises and the assumptions underlying the participants' claims.

suma
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hi,

is it possible to solve the following equation,

dy = dx/dt

for relation between y and x?

thanks
 
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You'll have to tell us more. Where did you find that equation? In what context does this problem come up? What else do you know about x and y?
 
suma said:
hi,

is it possible to solve the following equation,

dy = dx/dt

for relation between y and x?
I've never seen an equation like this, with a differential on one side and a derivative on the other.
 
In fact, you can't have an equation of that form. In terms of "non-standard analysis" a differential and "ordinary" function are different orders of objects and cannot be equal.

(You can say that dy= \frac{dy}{dx}\frac{dx}{dt} dt because there are differentials on both sides.)
 
let's take dy = k dx/dt where k is a constant, can then the value of y in terms of x or vice versa be solved?

i think it is possible to solve this, asking the physics and mathematicians who have encountered such problem

mathematicians help out here!

thanks
 
You have already been told by the "physics and mathematicians" out there that such a combination of symbols is meaningless- the two sides of the purported "equation" are different types of objects and so cannot be equal. That would be asking to solve "green= C sharp".

What reason do you have, after being told that the "equation" is meaningless, to "think it is possible to solve this"?
 
i think that any two quantities x and y once appears with equality equation like that should have solution
 
The question has been asked and answered, so I'm closing this thread.
 

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