Solve Linear ODE Using Integrating Factor

In summary, the conversation involves solving a linear first-order equation using an integrating factor and the subsequent steps taken to arrive at the final solution. There was a mistake in the initial solution, but it was corrected by dividing the constant by the integrating factor. The final solution is 2 - (x*cos(x))/sin(x).
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Solve the initial value problem:
$$sin(x)y' + ycos(x) = xsin(x), y(2)= \pi/2$$


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Recognizing it as a Linear First-Order Equation:$$\frac{dy}{dx}+y\frac{cosx}{sinx}=x$$
$$P(x)=\frac{cosx}{sinx}$$
Integrating factor: $$e^{\int \frac{cosx}{sinx}dx}=sinx$$

Multiplying the ODE by the integrating factor:
$$\frac{d}{dx}[ysinx] = xsinx$$

Integrating both sides: $$ysinx = \int xsinx dx$$
$$y=1-\frac{xcosx}{sinx}+C$$
Solving for C: $$C=1$$
$$y=2-\frac{xcosx}{sinx}$$

Apparently this solution is incorrect, but I can't figure out why?
 
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  • #2
From this line

ysinx=∫xsinxdx

you should get

ysinx = sinx - xcosx +C

then divide by sinx.
 
  • #3
Thanks! When I divided through by ##sin(x)## from the step you suggested, I had forgotten to divide ##C## by ##sin(x)##. I tend to ignore the constants which is a big mistake. Thanks for the help!
 
  • #4
maybe you have missed out some steps of what you did, it is not evident that you have worked out your integration factor or multiplied by it.

You don't need an integration factor and can go straight from line 1 to line 5.
 

Related to Solve Linear ODE Using Integrating Factor

1. What is a linear ODE?

A linear ODE (ordinary differential equation) is a mathematical equation that involves a dependent variable and its derivatives, with the derivatives being of the first degree. In other words, the dependent variable and its derivatives are not raised to any powers or multiplied together. The general form of a linear ODE is y' + p(x)y = q(x), where y' denotes the first derivative of y with respect to x, and p(x) and q(x) are functions of x.

2. What is an integrating factor?

An integrating factor is a function that is multiplied to both sides of a linear ODE in order to make it easier to solve. It is usually chosen in a way that allows the equation to be rewritten in a simpler form, often resulting in a separable equation that can be easily solved.

3. How do you solve a linear ODE using an integrating factor?

To solve a linear ODE using an integrating factor, follow these steps:

  1. Identify the p(x) and q(x) in the equation y' + p(x)y = q(x).
  2. Determine the integrating factor, which is given by e∫p(x)dx.
  3. Multiply both sides of the equation by the integrating factor.
  4. Use the product rule to expand the left side of the equation.
  5. Integrate both sides of the equation.
  6. Solve for y using algebraic manipulation.

4. What are the benefits of using an integrating factor to solve a linear ODE?

Using an integrating factor can make the process of solving a linear ODE more straightforward and systematic. It can also help to reduce the complexity of the equation and make it easier to manipulate and solve. Additionally, using an integrating factor can often result in finding a general solution, which can then be used to find specific solutions for different initial conditions.

5. When is it necessary to use an integrating factor to solve a linear ODE?

It is necessary to use an integrating factor when the given linear ODE cannot be solved using other methods, such as separation of variables or substitution. This is often the case when the equation is not in a standard form or when the coefficients p(x) and q(x) are not constant. In these situations, using an integrating factor can help to simplify the equation and make it easier to solve.

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