Solve dy/dx=e^(3x+2y) by separation of variables

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves solving the differential equation dy/dx = e^(3x + 2y) using separation of variables. Participants are exploring the implications of taking the natural logarithm of expressions derived from the integration process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the separation of variables technique and the integration steps involved. There are questions regarding the validity of taking the natural logarithm of negative expressions and the necessity of absolute value brackets in logarithmic functions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing guidance on the use of logarithms in the context of the problem. There is an exploration of conditions under which the solutions remain valid, particularly concerning the constant C and its impact on the realness of the solutions.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of the constant C in determining the validity of the solutions, specifically regarding the condition C - (2/3)e^(3x) > 0. There is also mention of common misconceptions related to logarithmic functions and absolute values.

ElijahRockers
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Homework Statement



solve dy/dx=e^(3x+2y) by separation of variables

The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\frac{dy}{dx}=e^{3x+2y}[/itex]

[itex]\frac{dy}{dx}=e^{3x}e^{2y}[/itex]

[itex]e^{-2y}dy=e^{3x}dx[/itex]

[itex]\int e^{-2y}dy=\int e^{3x}dx[/itex]

[itex]e^{-2y}=-\frac{2}{3}e^3x + C[/itex]

[itex]-2y = ln(-\frac{2}{3}e^{3x}+C)[/itex]

[itex]y=1\frac{1}{2}ln(-\frac{2}{3}e^{3x}+C)[/itex]

Just a little wondering mostly about the natural log thing. Can I take the natural log of the -ve function wrt x because of the constant?
 
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ElijahRockers said:

Homework Statement



solve dy/dx=e^(3x+2y) by separation of variables

The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\displaystyle \frac{dy}{dx}=e^{3x+2y}[/itex]

[itex]\displaystyle \frac{dy}{dx}=e^{3x}e^{2y}[/itex]

[itex]e^{-2y}dy=e^{3x}dx[/itex]

[itex]\int e^{-2y}dy=\int e^{3x}dx[/itex]

[itex]e^{-2y}=-\frac{2}{3}e^{3x} + C[/itex]

[itex]-2y = ln(-\frac{2}{3}e^{3x}+C)[/itex]

[itex]\displaystyle y=-\frac{1}{2}ln(-\frac{2}{3}e^{3x}+C)[/itex]

Just a little wondering mostly about the natural log thing. Can I take the natural log of the -ve function wrt x because of the constant?
(Fixed a couple of typos above.)

Of course this gives a "family" of solutions, depending upon the value of C.

For each value of C, the solution is real, only if [itex]\displaystyle C-\frac{2}{3}e^{3x}>0\ \text{ i.e. } x<\frac{1}{3}\ln\left(\frac{3C}{2}\right) \ .[/itex]
 
Last edited:
so I don't need any absolute value brackets or anything? I am a little shaky when it comes to logs/abs value
 
No, you don't need absolute value here. If [itex]e^x= y[/itex], then ln(y)= x.

You are thinking of the integral, [itex]\int (1/x)dx= ln|x|+ C[/itex], but you are not doing that here. [itex]\int e^{ax}dx= (1/a)e^{ax}+ C without any absolute value.[/itex]
 

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