# Specific solution of diff eq, no initial value

1. Aug 25, 2012

### cowmoo32

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Consider the differential equation

Find a general solution to this differential equation that has the form

.
.
.
y = Cx3

Find a second solution that might not be a general solution and which may have a different value of n than your first solution.

3. The attempt at a solution
I solved the first part of the problem
y = Cx3

But am at a complete loss for how to find a second explicit solution without being given an initial value.

Last edited: Aug 25, 2012
2. Aug 25, 2012

### LCKurtz

I'm guessing $y=0$ isn't what is being wanted here although it is a solution.

Question: Is $y = |x|^3$ a solution?

3. Aug 25, 2012

### HallsofIvy

Why would you guess that? $$y= 0x^n$$ is a solution for any n.

4. Aug 25, 2012

### LCKurtz

Are you addressing me? Yes, I know it is a solution for any n, as I said. But, given the poor wording of the question, I thought they might be looking for the more interesting $y = |x|^3$.

5. Aug 26, 2012

### cowmoo32

I've tried y=0 and y=e^c(x^3), I'll see if it accepts y=0x^n but I think they're looking for a specific n

edit: 0x^n was it! Thanks!