Variation of Parameters on a 1st Order DE

In summary, the variation of parameters method is a technique used to solve first order differential equations by introducing a set of unknown functions. It is typically used when the coefficients of the differential equation are variable and traditional methods are not applicable. The method involves finding a particular solution by first finding the general solution to the homogeneous equation and using the variation parameters to construct the particular solution. It can also be extended to solve higher order differential equations, but becomes more complex. However, it has limitations such as only being applicable to linear first order differential equations and becoming tedious for more complex equations.
  • #1
Saladsamurai
3,020
7

Homework Statement



Solve xy' - y = x3 (1) by using variation of parameters.

The Attempt at a Solution



Solving the homogeneous version of (1) gives

yh = c1x

Now we are to seek

yp = A(x)*x (2)

from (2)

y'2 = A'*x +A

plugging into (1) we have:

x[A'*x + A] - Ax = x3

A'x2 = x3

A' = x

=> A(x) = x2/2 +C2

=>yp= C2x + x3/2


Oh ... nevermind! :biggrin:
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Solving (1) using variation of parameters is not the right technique. Instead, we can solve it by using the method of integrating factors.
 

1. What is the concept of variation of parameters in solving a first order differential equation?

The variation of parameters method is a technique used to solve first order differential equations by introducing a set of unknown functions. These unknown functions, known as variation parameters, are then used to construct a particular solution to the differential equation.

2. When is the variation of parameters method used to solve a first order differential equation?

The variation of parameters method is typically used when the coefficients of the differential equation are variable, making it difficult to solve using traditional methods such as separation of variables or integrating factors.

3. How does the variation of parameters method work in solving a first order differential equation?

The variation of parameters method involves finding a particular solution to the differential equation by first finding the general solution to the homogeneous equation. The variation parameters are then used to construct a particular solution by assuming that the unknown functions are linear combinations of the basis solutions of the homogeneous equation.

4. Can the variation of parameters method be used to solve higher order differential equations?

Yes, the variation of parameters method can be extended to solve higher order differential equations. However, the process becomes more complex as the order of the differential equation increases.

5. Are there any limitations to using the variation of parameters method to solve first order differential equations?

One limitation of the variation of parameters method is that it only works for linear first order differential equations. Non-linear differential equations cannot be solved using this method. Additionally, the method can become quite tedious and time-consuming for more complex differential equations.

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