Solving a Non-Linear First Order ODE with Quotient Rule

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    Non-linear Ode
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a non-linear first-order ordinary differential equation (ODE) given by dy/dx=(x(y+3)+(y+3)²)/x², with the initial condition y(1)=4 and x>0. Participants are exploring various substitution methods to simplify the equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts a substitution of z=y/x, leading to a transformed equation. Some participants suggest using z=(y+3)/x instead, noting that it may simplify the differentiation process. Questions arise regarding the correct application of the quotient rule and how to substitute derivatives appropriately.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, offering alternative substitution strategies and questioning the application of differentiation rules. There is no explicit consensus on the best approach, but guidance is being provided on how to handle the derivatives involved.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted difficulty due to the lecturer's timing in introducing the topic, which may contribute to the confusion among participants. The requirement to express dy/dx in terms of z and x, without directly involving y, is a key point of discussion.

jimmythev
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Hello, having a lot of trouble with a dodgy question one of my lecturers has set us before teaching us how to do it, none of my course can seem to work out what to do. The question is:

dy/dx=(x(y+3)+(y+3)2)/x2

where y(1)=4, and x>0

I tried a substitution of z=y/x to eventually give

dy/dx=z2+z+(z+3)/x and am now completely lost. Can anyone help me work out the soln?
 
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You also need to replace dy/dx by something with just dz/dx (and z and x, but not y).
By the way, note that y/x and (y + 3)/x have the same derivative w.r.t. x, so taking z = (y + 3)/x may be more convenient (although I'm sure it will work out with z = y/x as well).
 
If I use z=(y+3)/x I get to dy/dx=z2+z

When I take dz/dx I get -(y+3)/x2, so dz=-(y+3)/x2 dx,
How do I go about substituting this into the equation so I can integrate wrt z?
 
dz/dx is NOT -(y+3)/x^2. y is a function of x too. You have to use the quotient rule. There will be a dy/dx in the expression for dz/dx. Solve for dy/dx and substitute the result into dy/dx=z^2+z.
 

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