Math Problem Statement

A first order differential equation of the form y' = f(x) / g(y).

Solution

The image contains a first order differential equation of the form y=f(x)g(y)y' = \frac{f(x)}{g(y)}. This type of equation is separable, which means we can rewrite it in a form that allows us to separate the variables xx and yy on different sides of the equation. Here's how you can solve it step-by-step:

Step-by-Step Solution

  1. Separate Variables: Start by rewriting the equation to separate xx and yy: g(y)dy=f(x)dxg(y) \, dy = f(x) \, dx

  2. Integrate Both Sides: Integrate both sides with respect to their respective variables: g(y)dy=f(x)dx\int g(y) \, dy = \int f(x) \, dx This step will yield two antiderivatives, one in terms of yy and the other in terms of xx.

  3. Solve for yy: The integration may involve constants of integration. Assuming constants are merged or one is subtracted from the other, we can represent it as CC. If possible, solve the resulting equation for yy in terms of xx.

  4. Initial Condition (if given): If an initial condition is provided, you can use it to solve for the constant CC.

Example

If f(x)=xf(x) = x and g(y)=yg(y) = y, the separable form becomes: ydy=xdxy \, dy = x \, dx Integrating both sides: ydy=xdx    y22=x22+C\int y \, dy = \int x \, dx \implies \frac{y^2}{2} = \frac{x^2}{2} + C Solving for yy: y=±x2+2Cy = \pm \sqrt{x^2 + 2C}

Would you like to go through a specific example with actual functions for f(x)f(x) and g(y)g(y)? Or do you have any further questions about this process?

Additional Questions

  1. What are the applications of separable differential equations?
  2. How can you verify the solution of a differential equation?
  3. What happens if g(y)g(y) or f(x)f(x) includes a term that makes the integral difficult or impossible to solve analytically?
  4. Can separable differential equations model exponential growth or decay?
  5. Are there any special techniques needed if g(y)g(y) is a function that leads to a singular solution at certain values of yy?

Tip

When solving differential equations, always check if the variables can be separated as it simplifies the solving process.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Differential Equations
Separation of Variables
Integration

Formulas

y' = f(x) / g(y)
∫ g(y) dy = ∫ f(x) dx

Theorems

Separable Differential Equations

Suitable Grade Level

Undergraduate Mathematics