Solve Linear ODE Using Integrating Factor

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion focuses on solving the initial value problem for a linear ordinary differential equation (ODE) given by $$\sin(x)y' + y\cos(x) = x\sin(x)$$ with the initial condition $$y(2) = \frac{\pi}{2}$$. The solution process involves recognizing the equation as a linear first-order equation, determining the integrating factor $$\sin(x)$$, and integrating both sides. The final solution is $$y = 2 - \frac{x\cos(x)}{\sin(x)}$$, with a correction noted regarding the constant of integration. The discussion highlights the importance of correctly applying the integrating factor and accounting for constants during integration.

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  • Understanding of linear first-order ordinary differential equations
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  • Familiarity with integration techniques, particularly integration by parts
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Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying differential equations, as well as anyone looking to improve their problem-solving skills in linear ODEs.

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Homework Statement



Solve the initial value problem:
$$sin(x)y' + ycos(x) = xsin(x), y(2)= \pi/2$$


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Recognizing it as a Linear First-Order Equation:$$\frac{dy}{dx}+y\frac{cosx}{sinx}=x$$
$$P(x)=\frac{cosx}{sinx}$$
Integrating factor: $$e^{\int \frac{cosx}{sinx}dx}=sinx$$

Multiplying the ODE by the integrating factor:
$$\frac{d}{dx}[ysinx] = xsinx$$

Integrating both sides: $$ysinx = \int xsinx dx$$
$$y=1-\frac{xcosx}{sinx}+C$$
Solving for C: $$C=1$$
$$y=2-\frac{xcosx}{sinx}$$

Apparently this solution is incorrect, but I can't figure out why?
 
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From this line

ysinx=∫xsinxdx

you should get

ysinx = sinx - xcosx +C

then divide by sinx.
 
Thanks! When I divided through by ##sin(x)## from the step you suggested, I had forgotten to divide ##C## by ##sin(x)##. I tend to ignore the constants which is a big mistake. Thanks for the help!
 
maybe you have missed out some steps of what you did, it is not evident that you have worked out your integration factor or multiplied by it.

You don't need an integration factor and can go straight from line 1 to line 5.
 

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