Substitution in Differential Equations

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the differential equation dy/dx = sin(x - y) using the substitution v = x - y. The user attempts to derive the general solution but encounters discrepancies with the solution provided in the textbook, specifically x = tan(x - y) + sec(x - y). The user successfully integrates the function 1/(1 - sin(v)) but struggles with the subsequent steps, leading to confusion about the correct form of the solution. Ultimately, the user seeks clarification on the integration process and the validity of the linear solution y(x) = x - π/2.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of first-order differential equations
  • Familiarity with substitution methods in calculus
  • Knowledge of trigonometric identities and integrals
  • Experience with MATLAB for numerical integration
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of substitution in solving differential equations
  • Learn about integrating functions involving trigonometric terms
  • Explore MATLAB's symbolic integration capabilities
  • Review the verification of solutions in differential equations
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, educators, and professionals dealing with differential equations, particularly those interested in integration techniques and solution verification methods.

rgalvan2
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Make an appropriate substitution to find a solution of the equation dy/dx=sin(x-y). Does this general solution contain the linear solution y(x)=x-pi/2 that is readily verified by substitution in the differential equation?

Here's what I did:
v=x-y
y=x-v
y'=1-dv/dx

1-dv/dx=sin(v)
1-sin(v)=dv/dx
dx=dv/(1-sin(v))
x=2/(cot(v/2)-1)

The solution in the back of the book gives:
x=tan(x-y) + sec(x-y)

What am I doing wrong?
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
 
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f =

1/(1-sin(x))


>> int(f,x)

ans =

-2/(tan(1/2*x)-1)

I have something different from MATLAB when I integrate 1/(1-sin(x))
 
rgalvan2 said:
Make an appropriate substitution to find a solution of the equation dy/dx=sin(x-y). Does this general solution contain the linear solution y(x)=x-pi/2 that is readily verified by substitution in the differential equation?

Here's what I did:
v=x-y
y=x-v
y'=1-dv/dx

1-dv/dx=sin(v)
1-sin(v)=dv/dx
dx=dv/(1-sin(v))
Everything is fine to here, but goes downhill after that.
The integral on the right isn't too bad.

\int \frac{dv}{1 - sin(v)}
= \int \frac{dv}{1 - sin(v)} * \frac{1 + sin(v)}{1 + sin(v)}
=\int \frac{(1 + sin(v))dv}{1 - sin^2(v)}

The denominator simplifies to cos^2(v) and you can split the integral into two integrals, one of which is straightforward. The other one requires only an ordinary substitution.

I ended with the same answer as in the book.

rgalvan2 said:
x=2/(cot(v/2)-1)

The solution in the back of the book gives:
x=tan(x-y) + sec(x-y)

What am I doing wrong?
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
 

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