Solving DE: dr/d(theta) + r*sec(theta) = cos(theta)

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The differential equation dr/d(theta) + r*sec(theta) = cos(theta) can be solved using an integrating factor. The solution is expressed as (sec(theta) + tan(theta))*r = theta - cos(theta) + c. The user initially struggled with the integration process and the presence of complex terms, but ultimately clarified their understanding of the integral involving sec(theta). This discussion highlights the importance of integrating factors in solving first-order linear differential equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of first-order linear differential equations
  • Familiarity with integrating factors
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions, specifically secant and tangent
  • Basic integration techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of integrating factors in detail
  • Practice solving first-order linear differential equations
  • Explore advanced integration techniques involving trigonometric functions
  • Review the properties and applications of secant and tangent functions
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those focusing on differential equations and integration techniques. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to enhance their problem-solving skills in calculus.

ckp
Messages
12
Reaction score
0
dr/d(theta) + r*sec(theta) = cos(theta)

apparently the solution is (sec(theta) + tan(theta))*r = theta - cos(theta) + c

but i have no idea how to get there.

i am using a technique from the book, but it yeilds an answer with lots of e's and an integral i can't solve.

this is my work. hope it doesn't look like a complete mess

ce^(-(sec(theta)tan(theta))) + e^(-(sec(theta)tan(theta)))(integral([e^(sec(theta)tan(theta))]cos(theta))d(theta)]

and i have no idea what to do from here.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
\frac{dr}{d \theta} + r sec\theta=cos\theta


looks a bit like

\frac{dy}{dx} + yP(x)=Q(x)

doesn't it? So try an integrating factor.
 
i was trying to use an integrating factor, but I am not sure if I am using it right. the long mess is what i end up with and i can't go any further. my book doesn't do a very good job of explaining it
 
ha, nevermind. I'm sorry, I messed up the integral of sec(X) >_>

got it now.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
3K