Linear equations - use of integrating factor

In summary, the conversation discusses a question related to the equation \frac{dy}{dx} + 5y = e2x and how to find the left-hand-side derivative using the derivative rule. The solution involves multiplying both sides by e5x and recognizing that the left-hand-side is the derivative of y.e5x. The question is further clarified in a separate forum post.
  • #1
nufc365
4
0
Hi, I am doing self study and have hit a snag in the road. Can someone please clarfiy this for me. I am reading K.A. Stroud's Engineering Mathematics which so far has been great.


Consider the equation [itex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/itex] + 5y = e2x

In this case, we begin multiplying both sides by e5x. This gives

e5x[itex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/itex] + y5e5x = e2x.e5x = e7x

We now find that the left-hand-side is the derivative of y.e5x.

[itex]\frac{d}{dx}[/itex](y.e5x) = e7x


____________________

Can someone please clarify how the left hand side is the derivative of y.e5x.

I get that y5e5x is the derivative of y.e5x, but what about the first part of the left-hand-side. What happens to the e5x[itex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/itex]
 
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  • #2

Related to Linear equations - use of integrating factor

1. What is an integrating factor in a linear equation?

An integrating factor is a function that is used to simplify the process of solving a linear equation. It is multiplied to both sides of the equation to make it easier to integrate and find a solution.

2. How do you determine the integrating factor for a linear equation?

The integrating factor for a linear equation can be determined by finding the coefficient of the highest order derivative term and then taking the exponential of the integral of that coefficient.

3. What is the purpose of using an integrating factor in solving a linear equation?

The purpose of using an integrating factor is to transform a complex linear equation into a simpler form that can be easily solved. This technique is especially useful for equations that involve variables with different coefficients.

4. Can an integrating factor be used in all linear equations?

No, an integrating factor can only be used in linear equations that are in the form of dy/dx + P(x)y = Q(x), where P(x) and Q(x) are functions of x. If the equation is not in this form, then an integrating factor cannot be applied.

5. Are there any limitations to using an integrating factor in solving linear equations?

One limitation of using an integrating factor is that it only works for homogeneous linear equations, which means that the coefficients of the highest order derivative and the y term must be functions of x only. Additionally, if the integrating factor cannot be easily determined, it may not be an efficient method for solving the equation.

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