Solve ODE for Y: yy'' = (y')2 - (y')3

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the ordinary differential equation (ODE) given by yy'' = (y')² - (y')³. Participants are exploring the relationships between the derivatives of y and the implications of their manipulations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to express y' in terms of a function p(y) and explore the implications of this substitution. Questions arise regarding the meaning of p(y) and the relationships between the derivatives. There is also a focus on algebraic manipulations and the correctness of steps taken in the derivation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants clarifying concepts and addressing misunderstandings. Some have pointed out potential errors in algebraic steps, which has led to a realization of the importance of these details in solving the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the algebraic manipulations involved and the definitions of terms used in the context of the ODE. There is an acknowledgment of missing information or clarity in the problem setup.

manenbu
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Homework Statement



yy'' = (y')2 - (y')3

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



y' = p(y)
y'' - p'p

yp' = p - p2

dp/p + dp/(1-p) = dy/y

ln|p|+ln|1-p| = ln|y|+c

p-p2 = cy

y' - y'2 = cy

now what?
how do I solve for y?
I think I'm missing some stupid algebra thingy here, but can't figure it out.
 
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manenbu said:

Homework Statement



yy'' = (y')2 - (y')3

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



y' = p(y)
y'' - p'p
What does p(y) mean? I would normally take this to mean "p of y". Do you mean y' = py; i.e. p times y?
What is y'' - p'p? That's not an equation. How does it relate to the equation above it?
manenbu said:
yp' = p - p2

dp/p + dp/(1-p) = dy/y

ln|p|+ln|1-p| = ln|y|+c

p-p2 = cy

y' - y'2 = cy

now what?
how do I solve for y?
I think I'm missing some stupid algebra thingy here, but can't figure it out.
 
y' = p(y)
p is a function of y
should be y = p'p, not y - p'p.
y'' = p'(y)y' (chain rule)
y'' = p'(y)p(y) or p'p. :)
 
manenbu said:
dp/p + dp/(1-p) = dy/y

ln|p|+ln|1-p| = ln|y|+c

Errm... [itex]\frac{d}{dp}\ln|1-p|=-\frac{1}{1-p}\neq\frac{1}{1-p}[/itex] :wink:
 
oh. of course. stupid me. Now it all comes together.
Thanks for pointing this out.

It's always the little stuff that makes it problematic.
Have a nice day! :)
 

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