Check My Work for solving this Differential Equation? :)

In summary, the student attempted to solve the differential equation y(t)=-1+y2 using the following steps: y=tan(t+c), which did not satisfy the equation. They then used y(π/4)=-1 to find -1=tan(π/4+c), which led them to find the solution y(t)=-2.
  • #1
Dusty912
149
1

Homework Statement


Question: Solve this differential equation
dy/dt=1+y2 and y(π/4)=-1

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


dy/dt=1+y2 and y(π/4)=-1

dy/dt=1+y2
dy=(1+y2)dt
dy/(1+y2)=dt
∫dy(1+y2)=∫dt
tan-1(y)=t+c
y(t)=tan(t)+c
y(π/4)=tan(π/4)+c
-1=1+c
-2=c

answer: y(t)=tan(t)-2
 
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  • #2
Dusty912 said:

Homework Statement


Question: Solve this differential equation
dy/dt=1+y2 and y(π/4)=-1

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


dy/dt=1+y2 and y(π/4)=-1

dy/dt=1+y2
dy=(1+y2)dt
dy/(1+y2)=dt
∫dy(1+y2)=∫dt
tan-1(y)=t+c
y(t)=tan(t)+c
y(π/4)=tan(π/4)+c
-1=1+c
-2=c

answer: y(t)=tan(t)-2
Did you check if dy/dt=1+y2 for your solution?

I think there is an error in this step:
tan-1(y)=t+c
y(t)=tan(t)+c
 
  • #3
Samy_A said:
Did you check if dy/dt=1+y2 for your solution?

I think there is an error in this step:
tan-1(y)=t+c
y(t)=tan(t)+c

hmm I'm not sure that I am seeing the error, does it involve the constant being effected by the tan?
 
  • #4
Dusty912 said:
hmm I'm not sure that I am seeing the error, does it involve the constant being effected by the tan?
Yes.

There must be an error somewhere, as inspection would show that y(t)=tan(t)-2 doesn't satisfy the differential equation.
 
  • #5
so would it look something like this: y=tan(t+c) ----not my answer but the next step
 
  • #6
Dusty912 said:
so would it look something like this: y=tan(t+c) ----not my answer but the next step
Yes.
 
  • #7
ok so then then from there using y(π/4)=-1
the next step would be: -1=tan(π/4+c)
and then I am guessing the step would be: tan-1(-1)=π/4+c
 
  • #8
Dusty912 said:
ok so then then from there using y(π/4)=-1
the next step would be: -1=tan(π/4+c)
and then I am guessing the step would be: tan-1(-1)=π/4+c
Yes (no need for guessing, though).
 
  • #9
adding on to the previous steps: -π/4=π/4+c
-π/2=c

so the the solution would be:
y(t)=tan(t-π/2)
 
  • #10
Dusty912 said:
adding on to the previous steps: -π/4=π/4+c
-π/2=c

so the the solution would be:
y(t)=tan(t-π/2)
Yes.
 
  • #11
Okay thank you very much. You've been very helpful.
 

Related to Check My Work for solving this Differential Equation? :)

1. How can I check if my solution to a differential equation is correct?

One way to check your work is by plugging your solution into the original differential equation and seeing if it satisfies the equation.

2. Can I use a graphing calculator to check my work for solving a differential equation?

Yes, you can use a graphing calculator to graph both the original differential equation and your solution. If they match, then your solution is most likely correct.

3. Is there a specific method or steps to follow when checking my work for solving a differential equation?

Yes, there are steps and methods that can be used to check your work. Some common techniques include substitution, differentiation, and integration.

4. What should I do if my solution to a differential equation does not match the given answer?

If your solution does not match the given answer, double check your steps and calculations. You may have made a mistake along the way. If you are still unsure, seek help from a tutor or professor.

5. Can I use online tools or software to check my work for solving a differential equation?

Yes, there are many online tools and software available that can help you check your work for solving a differential equation. Some popular ones include WolframAlpha, Symbolab, and Desmos.

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