Solve the initial-value problem dy/dx = 2xy with y(0) = 3.
Solution
Problem
Step 1: Separate the variables.
The differential equation is:
dy/dx = 2xy
For y ≠ 0, divide by y and multiply by dx:
(1/y) dy = 2x dx
Step 2: Integrate both sides.
∫ (1/y) dy = ∫ 2x dx
This gives:
ln|y| = x^2 + C
Step 3: Solve for y.
Exponentiate both sides:
|y| = e^(x^2 + C)
Absorb the constant and possible sign into a new arbitrary constant A:
y = Ae^(x^2)
Step 4: Apply the initial condition.
We are given:
y(0) = 3
Substitute x = 0 and y = 3:
3 = Ae^(0^2)
Since e^0 = 1:
3 = A
Step 5: Write the particular solution.
Substitute A = 3:
y = 3e^(x^2)
Step 6: Verify the initial condition and differential equation.
At x = 0:
y(0) = 3e^0 = 3
Differentiate:
y' = 3e^(x^2)(2x) = 6xe^(x^2)
Also:
2xy = 2x(3e^(x^2)) = 6xe^(x^2)
The expressions agree.
Therefore, the solution to the initial-value problem is y = 3e^(x^2).
Result
y = 3e^(x^2)