Solving for y: Where Did My Calculations Go Wrong?

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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem where the correct answer should be y=x/[1+2cx^(2x)], but the calculations only result in y=2/[1-ce^(-x)]. The mistake was missing out dividing by 2 when integrating. After correcting the mistake, the correct answer is obtained as y=x/[1+2cx^(2x)].
  • #1
asdf1
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for the following question:
y`+2y=y^2

my problem:
suppose u=1/y
so u`=-[y^(-2)]*y`=-1+2u
so du/(1+2u)=-dx
=>1+2u=ce^(-x)
=>u=[1-ce^(-x)]/2
so y=1/u=2/[1-ce^(-x)]

but the correct answer should be y=x/[1+2cx^(2x)]
does anybody know where my calculations went wrong?
 
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  • #2
asdf1 said:
for the following question:
y`+2y=y^2
my problem:
suppose u=1/y
so u`=-[y^(-2)]*y`=-1+2u
so du/(1+2u)=-dx
=>1+2u=ce^(-x)

=>u=[1-ce^(-x)]/2
so y=1/u=2/[1-ce^(-x)]
but the correct answer should be y=x/[1+2cx^(2x)]
does anybody know where my calculations went wrong?

missed out dividing by 2 when integrating.

so du/(1+2u)=-dx
(1/2)ln(1+2u) = -x +lnC
ln(1+2u) = -2x + lnC²
ln{(1+2u)/C²} = -2x
1+ 2u = C²e^(-2x)
=>1+2u=ce^(-2x)
 
  • #3
opps~ thanks! :)
 

Related to Solving for y: Where Did My Calculations Go Wrong?

1. What is "Solving for y: A Misstep"?

"Solving for y: A Misstep" is a mathematical concept that involves solving equations for the variable y. It refers to a common mistake that students make when solving equations, where they incorrectly manipulate the equation in a way that produces the wrong answer for y.

2. How do you recognize a misstep when solving for y?

A misstep when solving for y can be recognized by checking the solution against the original equation. If the solution does not make the equation true, then a mistake has been made.

3. What are some common missteps when solving for y?

Some common missteps when solving for y include forgetting to distribute a negative sign, incorrectly dividing or multiplying by a variable, and forgetting to apply the distributive property.

4. How can I avoid making a misstep when solving for y?

To avoid making a misstep when solving for y, it is important to carefully check each step and ensure that it is mathematically correct. It can also be helpful to write out each step clearly and double-check the solution by plugging it back into the original equation.

5. What is the importance of correctly solving for y?

Correctly solving for y is important because it allows us to find the value of a variable in an equation, which is crucial in solving many real-world problems. Additionally, it helps to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are applicable in other areas of life.

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