Working the differential equation dy/dx = x-y/x+y

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the homogeneous differential equation dy/dx = (x - y) / (x + y). Participants emphasize the importance of correctly applying the homogeneous differential equation rules, specifically using the substitution v = y/x. A key error identified is in the manipulation of the equation, particularly in the integration step. The correct formulation involves ensuring that the left side is expressed as v + x(dv/dx) and accurately simplifying the right side to facilitate integration.

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  • Understanding of homogeneous differential equations
  • Familiarity with the substitution method in differential equations
  • Knowledge of integration techniques
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic fractions
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  • Study the method of substitution for solving homogeneous differential equations
  • Practice integration techniques specific to differential equations
  • Learn about the implications of variable separation in differential equations
  • Review algebraic manipulation of fractions in calculus contexts
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Students studying differential equations, mathematics educators, and anyone seeking to improve their problem-solving skills in calculus.

bitrex
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Homework Statement



Solve \frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{x-y}{x+y}


Homework Equations



Homogeneous differential equation rules = v = \frac{y}{x}\frac{1}{y} = \frac{x}{y} \frac{dy}{dx} = v + x\frac{dv}{dx}

The Attempt at a Solution



\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{x}{x+y}-\frac{y}{x+y} = \frac{1}{1+\frac{y}{x}} - \frac{1}{1+\frac{x}{y}}

x+\frac{dv}{dx} = (1+v)^-1-(1+1/v)^-1


I'd like to know if what I've done here looks good so far? I'm not getting the right answer when I complete the integration, so I'm curious to know if I'm making an error after this point or if I've just completely set the problem up wrong. Thanks for any help!
 
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Check your last step its supposed to be v+x\frac{dv}{dx}
 
bitrex said:

Homework Statement



Solve \frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{x-y}{x+y}


Homework Equations



Homogeneous differential equation rules = v = \frac{y}{x}\frac{1}{y} = \frac{x}{y} \frac{dy}{dx} = v + x\frac{dv}{dx}

The Attempt at a Solution



\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{x}{x+y}-\frac{y}{x+y} = \frac{1}{1+\frac{y}{x}} - \frac{1}{1+\frac{x}{y}}

x+\frac{dv}{dx} = (1+v)^-1-(1+1/v)^-1


I'd like to know if what I've done here looks good so far? I'm not getting the right answer when I complete the integration, so I'm curious to know if I'm making an error after this point or if I've just completely set the problem up wrong. Thanks for any help!

As djeitnstine pointed out, your left side should be v+ x dv/dx. The right side is
\frac{1}{1+ v}- \frac{1}{1+ \frac{1}{v}}
Multiplying the numerator and denominator of the last fraction by v, this is
\frac{1}{1+ v}- \frac{v}{v+ 1}
which is equal to ?
 

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