Module 2 First-Order Differential

Equations

Introduction

In this module, we will discuss several methods to find solutions of first-order differential
equations. After finishing this module, students are expected to be familiar with the different
forms of a first-order differential equation and how to find solutions for them.

Topic Outcomes

1. Recognize a 1st order DE to be Variable Separable equation by grouping the variables

to its corresponding differential.

2. Show the solution of a variable separable DE using the correct method, expressed in
its simplest form.

3. Recognize a 1st order DE to have Homogeneous Coefficients by performing the

homogeneity test to its coefficients.

4. Show the solution of a DE with homogeneous coefficients using the correct method,
expressed in its simplest form.

5. Recognize a 1st order DE to be Exact equation by performing the exactness test.

6. Show the solution of an exact DE using the correct method, expressed in its simplest
form.

7. Recognize a 1st order DE to be a linear equation by writing it to the linear form.

8. Show the solution of a linear DE using the correct method, expressed in its simplest
form.

9. Recognize that a 1st order DE has an integrating factor by grouping terms to give
exact correct differentials.

10. Show solution of a DE by using integrating factors, expressed in its simplest form.
11. Recognize that a non-exact DE can be made exact by means of the use of a correct
integrating factor.

12. Show solution of a non-exact DE by using an integrating factor to make it exact,

expressed in its simplest form.

13. Recognize that terms in a DE can be used to make substitution by making appropriate
substitution.

14. Show solutions of a DE by making substitutions out of its terms to make use of other
methods.

15. Recognize that a DE is a Bernoulli DE by writing it in the Bernoulli form correctly.

16. Show the solution of a Bernoulli DE using the correct method, expressed in its simplest
form.

17. Recognize that coefficients in a DE are linear in two variables by finding the intersection
of the lines or making appropriate substitution correctly.

18. Show the solution of a DE with coefficients linear in two variables using the correct
method, expressed in its simplest form.
Separation of Variables

As mentioned before, a first-order differential equation can be written in the form

M (x, y) dx + N (x, y) dy = 0 (1)

where M and N ay both functions of x and y.

If an equation in the form of (1) can be written in the form

A (x) dx + B (y) dy = 0 (2)

then the equation is said be variable separable. The solution can be immediately obtained
by integrating both sides of (2).
Z Z
A (x) dx + B (y) dy = c

Another definition:
A first-order differential equation in the form
dy
= g(x)h(y)
dx
is said to have separable variable.
Example 1.

Solve the equation

(1 − x)y 0 = y 2
Solution:
The given equation can be written as

dy
(1 − x) = y2
dx
multiplying both sides by dx,

(1 − x)dy = y 2 dx

Dividing the entire equation by (1 − x)y 2 , yields to

dy dx
=
y2 1−x
Integrating both sides of the equation gives,
Z Z
dy dx
2
=
y 1−x
1
− = − ln |1 − x| + c
y
1
− = − ln |1 − x| + ln c
y
Simplifying gives the final result as

y ln |c(1 − x)| = 1
Example 2.

Solve the equation

sin x sin ydx + cos x cos ydy = 0
Solution:
Using separation of variables,

sin x sin y dx = − cos x cos y dy

sin x cos y
dx = − dy
cos x sin y
tan x dx = − cot y dy

Integrating both sides

Z Z
tan x dx + cot y dy = c

− ln | cos x| + ln | sin y| = ln |c|

Simplifying the results,

− ln | cos x| + ln | sin y| = ln |c|

ln | sin y| + ln | cos x| = ln |c|
 
 sin y 
ln   = ln |c|
cos x 
sin y
=c
cos x
sin y = c cos x
Example 3.

Solve the equation

2
xy 3 dx + ex dy = 0
Solution:
1
Multiply both sides by ex2 y 3
.

xdx dy
+ 3 =0
ex2 y
2 dy
xe−x dx + 3 = 0
y
Integrating both sides of the equation,
Z Z
−x2 dy
xe dx + =c
y3
1 2 1
− e−x − y −2 = c
2 2
2
e−x + y −2 = −2c
2
e−x + y −2 = c
Example 4.

Solve the equation

2y dx = 3x dy
Solution:
1
Multiply both sides of the equation by ,
xy

1 1
(2y dx) = (3x dy)
xy xy
2 dx 3 dy
=
x y
Integrating both sides,

2 dx 3 dy
=
x y
Z Z
dx dy
2 =3 +c
x y
2 ln |x| = 3 ln |y| + ln |c|
ln |x2 | = ln |y 3 | + ln |c|
ln |x2 | = ln |cy 3 |
x2 = cy 3
Example 5.

Solve the equation

ye2x dx = (4 + e2x )dy
Solution:
1
Multiply both sides of the equation by ,
y(4 + e2x )

1 2x

 2x
 1
2x
ye dx = (4 + e )dy
y(4 + e ) y(4 + e2x )
e2x dx dy
2x
=
4+e y
Integrating both sides, we have

e2x dx
Z Z
dy
= +c
4 + e2x y
1
ln |4 + e2x | = ln |y| + ln |c|
2
ln |4 + e2x | = 2 ln |y| + 2 ln |c|
ln |4 + e2x | = ln |y 2 | + ln |c2 |
ln |4 + e2x | = ln |c2 y 2 |
4 + e2x = c2 y 2

Notice that c2 can be written as just c, since they are both arbitrary, but we should
note that the left side of the equation is always greater than 0. Therefore, if we just write c,
we will be restricted to values of c ≥ 0.
Example 6.

Solve the equation

dr = b (cos θ dr + r sin θ dθ)
Solution:
Rewrite the given equation as

dr = b cos θ dr + br sin θ dθ
dr − b cos θ dr = br sin θ dθ
(1 − b cos θ) dr = br sin θ dθ

Divide the equation by (1 − b cos θ)r,

dr b sin θdθ
=
r 1 − b cos θ
Integrating both sides of the equation,
Z Z
dr b sin θdθ
= +c
r 1 − b cos θ
ln |r| = ln |1 − b cos θ| + ln |c|
ln |r| = ln |c(1 − b cos θ)|
r = c(1 − b cos θ)
Example 7.

Solve the equation

xydx − (x + 2)dy = 0
Solution:
Dividing the equation by y(x + 2)

x dx dy
− =0
x+2 y

Integrating both sides of the equation,

Z Z
x dx dy
− c
x+2 y
Z   Z
2 dy
1− dx − =c
x+2 y
x − 2 ln |x + 2| − ln |y| = ln |c|
x = ln |x + 2|2 + ln |y| + ln |c|
x = ln |cy(x + 2)2 |
2
ex = eln |cy(x+2) |
ex = cy(x + 2)2
Example 8.

Solve the equation

xy 3 dx + (y + 1)e−x dy = 0
Solution:
Divide the equation by y 3 e−x ,

xdx (y + 1)dy
− =0
e−x y3
xex dx − y −3 (y + 1)dy = 0

Integrating both sides,

Z Z
x
xe dx − y −3 (y + 1)dy = c
1 1
xex − ex − − 2 =c
y 2y
1 1
ex (x − 1) = + 2 + c
y 2y
Example 9.

Solve the particular solution given the initial condition equation 2xyy 0 = 1 + y 2 , when x = 2
and y = 3.

Solution:
Divide the given equation by x(1 + y 2 ),

2xyy 0 = 1 + y 2
dy
2xy = 1 + y2
dx
2y dy dx
2
=
1+y x
Integrate both sides of equation
Z Z
2ydy dx
2
=
1+y x
2
ln |1 + y | = ln |x| + ln |c|
ln |1 + y 2 | = ln c|x|
1 + y 2 = cx

When x = 2, and y = 3, then

1 + y 2 = cx
1 + 32 = c(2)
c=5

Therefore, the particular solution of the differential equation is

1 + y 2 = 5x
Equations with Homogeneous Coefficients

Polynomials in which all the terms are of the same degree, such as
x2 + 2xy + y 2 x3 + y 3 x4 y + 8y 5
are called homogeneous polynomials.
Let us extend the concept of homogeneity and define what a homogeneous function is.

Definition
The function f (x, y) is said to be homogeneous of degree k in x and y if, and only if,
f (λx, λy) = λk f (x, y)

Theorem 0.0.1. If M (x, y) and N (x, y) are both homogeneous and of the same degree, then
M (x, y)
the function is homogeneous of degree zero.
N (x, y)

Theorem 0.0.2. If f (x, y) is homogeneous of degree zero in x and y, then f (x, y) is a

y
function of alone.
x

Example 1.
Determine if the function f (x, y) is homogeneous and if it is, state the degree of the function.
y x4
f (x, y) = 2y 3 e x −
x + 3y
Solution:
Original function
y x4
f (x, y) = 2y 3 e x −
x + 3y
f (λx, λy),
(λx)4 x4
 
λy y
3 3 3 x
f (λx, λy) = 2(λy) e λx − = λ · 2y e −
λx + 3λy x + 3y
Now,
f (λx, λy) = λ3 f (x, y)
Therefore, f (x, y) is homogeneous of degree 3.
Equations with Homogeneous Coefficients

Suppose the coefficients M and N in the differential equation of the first order

M (x, y) + N (x, y) = 0

are both homogeneous and are of same degree in x and y. We can put the equation in the
form
dy M (x, y)
+ = 0.
dx N (x, y)
By Theorems (1) and (2), we can put it in the form

dy y
+f =0
dx x
From this we may introduce a new variable v such that y = vx. Then the equation
becomes
dv
x + v + f (v) = 0
dx
in which the variable are now separable.

The method would have been equally successful if we used x = vy to obtain an equation
in y and v. However, it is sometimes easier to substitute for the variable whose differential
has the simpler coefficients.
Example 2.
Solve the equation
2(2x2 + y 2 )dx − xydy = 0
Solution:
From M dx + N dy = 0, both M and N are homogeneous functions of degree 2, let us put
y = vx
dy = vdx + xdv
Substitute to the original equation,
2(2x2 + v 2 x2 )dx − x2 v(vdx + xdv) = 0
(4x2 + 2v 2 x2 − v 2 x2 )dx − vx3 dv = 0
(4x2 + v 2 x2 )dx − vx3 dv = 0
x2 (4 + v 2 )dx − vx3 dv = 0
By separation of variables, divide the equation by (4 + v 2 )x3 ,

dx vdv
− =0
Z x Z 4 + v2
dx vdv
− =c
x 4 + v2
1
ln |x| − ln (4 + v 2 ) = ln |c|
2
2 ln |x| − ln (v 2 + 4) = ln |c|
 2 
 x 
ln  2  = ln |c|
v + 4
 2 
ln  x 2 
e 4+v = eln |c|
x2
=c
4 + v2
x2 = c(4 + v 2 )
y
Since v = ,
x
  2 
2 y
x =c 4+
x
  2 
y
x2 =c 4+
x2
 2
4x + y 2

x2 =c
x2
x4 = c(4x2 + y 2 )
Example 3.

Solve the equation

xydx − (x2 + 3y 2 )dy = 0
Solution:
Since both coefficients M and N are homogeneous and of degree 2, let,

x = vy
dx = vdy + ydv

vy 2 (vdy + ydx) − (v 2 y 2 + 3y 2 )dy = 0

(v 2 y 2 − v 2 y 2 − 3y 2 )dy + vy 3 dv = 0
−3y 2 dy + vy 3 dv = 0

Using separation of variables, divide the equation by y 3 ,

dy
−3 + vdv =0
y
Z Z
dy
−3 + vdv =c
y
1
−3 ln |y| + v 2 = ln |c|
2
6 ln |y| − v 2 = −2 ln |c|
6 ln |y| − v 2 = ln |c|

x
Since v = , then
y
2
x2
6 ln |y| − = ln |c|
y2
6y 2 ln |y| − x2 = y 2 ln |c|
6y 2 ln |y| − y 2 ln |c| = x2
y 2 (ln (y 6 ) − ln |c|) = x2
 6
y 
x2 = y 2 ln  
c
x = y ln |cy 6 |
2 2
Example 4.

Solve the equation    

y
x csc − y dx + xdy = 0
x
Solution:
Since M and N are both homogeneous functions of degree 1, we let
y
y = vx; v=
x
dy = vdx + xdv

(x csc v − vx)dx + x(vdx + xdv) = 0

(x csc v + vx − vx)dx + x2 dv = 0
x csc v dx + x2 dv = 0

By separation of variables, divide x2 csc v

dx dv
+ =0
x csc v
dx
+ sin vdv = 0
Z xZ
dx
+ sin vdv = c
x
ln |x| − cos v = ln |c|
ln |x| − ln |c| = cos v
 
x
cos v = ln  
c

y
Since v = , then
x
 
x
cos v = ln  
c
   
y x
cos = ln  
x c
 
y
cos = ln |cx|
x
Example 5.

Solve the equation

(x − y ln |y| + y ln |x|)dx + x(ln |y| − ln |x|)dy = 0

Solution:
Since M and N are homogeneous function of degree 1, then let

y = vx
dy = vdx + xdv

(x − vx ln |vx| + vx ln |x|)dx + x(ln |vx| − ln |x|)(vdx + xdv) = 0

xdx + x2 (ln |vx| − ln |x|)dx + x(ln |vx| − ln |x|)(vdx + dv) = 0
xdx + x2 ln |v|dv = 0

By separation of variables, divide the equation by x2

xdx + x2 ln |v|dv = 0
dx
+ ln |v| = 0
Z xZ
dx
+ ln |v| = 0
x
ln |x| + v ln |v| − v = ln |c|
y
Since v = , then
x
ln |x| + v ln |v| − v = ln |c|
 
y  y  y
ln |x| + ln   − = ln |c|
x x x
 
y
x ln |x| + y ln   − y = cx
x
x ln |x| + y ln |y| − y ln |x| − y = cx
(x − y) ln |x| + y ln |y| = cx + y
Example 6.
Solve the equation
y 2 dy = x(xdy − ydx)ex/y
Solution:
Express the given equation as
y 2 dy = x(xdy − ydx)ex/y
(y 2 − x2 ex/y )dy = −xyex/y dx
Since both coefficients are homogeneous and of degree 2, let
x
x = vy; v=
y
dx = vdy + ydv

(y 2 − v 2 y 2 ev )dy = −vy 2 ev [vdy + ydv]

(y 2 − v 2 ev + v 2 y 2 ev )dy = vy 3 ev dv
y 2 dy = vy 3 ev dv
By separation of variables, divide the equation by y 3 ,
dy
= vdv
y
Z Z
dy
= vev dv
y
Z
ln |y| = ve − ev dv + ln |c|
v

ln |y| = vev − ev + ln |c|

ln |y| − ln |c| = ev (v − 1)

x
Since v = , then
y
ln |y| − ln |c| = ev (v − 1)
   
y  x/y x
ln   = e
  −1
c y
   
x/y x − y
y 
ln   = e
 
c y
 
y 
y ln   = (x − y)ex/y
c
y ln |cy| = (x − y)ex/y
Example 7.
Solve the equation  
2y
xdx + sin (ydx − xdy) = 0
x
Solution:
Rewrite the given equation as
    
2 y 2 y
x + y sin dx − x sin dy = 0
x x
Let
y
y = vx; v=
x
dy = vdx + xdv
 
x + vx sin v dx − x sin2 v(vdx + xdv) = 0
2

[x + vx sin2 v − vx sin2 vdx] − x2 sin2 vdv = 0

xdx − x2 sin2 vdv = 0

By separation of variables, divide the equation x2

xdx − x2 sin2 vdv =0
dx
− sin vdv =0
Z x Z
dx
− sin vdv =0
x
Z Z  
dx 1 1
− − cos 2v dv =c
x 2 2
1 1
ln |x| − v + sin 2v = − ln |c|
2 4
y
Since v = , then
x
    
1 y 1 y
ln |x| − + sin 2 = − ln |c|
2 x 4 x
  
y
4x ln |x| − 2y + x sin 2 = 4x ln |c|
x
  
y
4x ln |x| + 4x ln |c| − 2y + x sin 2 =0
x
  
y
4x ln |cx| − 2y + x sin 2 =0
x
Example 8.
Solve the equation
(x − y)(4x + y)dx + x(x(5x − y))dy = 0
Solution:
Rewrite the given equation as,
(4x2 − 4xy + xy − y 2 )dx + (5x2 − xy)dy = 0
(4x2 − 3xy − y 2 )dx + (5x2 − xy)dy = 0
Let
y
y = vx; v=
x
dy = vdx + xdv

(4x2 − 3xy − y 2 )dx + (5x2 − xy)dy = 0

(4x2 − 3x2 v − v 2 x2 )dx + (5x2 − x2 v)(vdx + xdv) = 0
(4x2 + 2x2 v − 2v 2 x2 )dx + x3 (5 − v)dv = 0
x2 (4 − 2v − 2v 2 )dx + x3 (5 − v)dv = 0

By separation of variables, divide the equation by x3 (4 + 2v − 2v 2 )

x2 (4 − 2v − 2v 2 )dx + x3 (5 − v)dv = 0
dx 5−v
+ 2
dv = 0
x 4 + 2v − 2v
(5 − v)dv
Z Z
dx
+ =c
x 4 + 2v − 2v 2
   
−2
Z Z
dx 1 1
+ + dv = c
x 2 v+1 v−2
1
ln |x| + (−2 ln |v + 1| + ln |v − 2|) = ln |c|
2
2 ln |x| + 2 ln |v + 1| − ln |v − 2| = ln |c|
 2
 x (v + 1)2 

ln   = ln |c|
v−2 
 2
 x (v + 1)2 

 v−2 =c
 

x2 (v + 1)2 = c(v − 2)
y
Since v = , then
x
y 2 y 
x2 +1 =c −2
x x
2
x(y + x) = c(y − 2x)
Example 9.

Solve the equation

    
y y
x − y arctan dx + x arctan dy = 0
x x

Solution:
Let
y
y = vx; v=
x
dy = vdx + xdv

(x − vx arctan v)dx + x arctan v(vdx + xdv) = 0

(x − vx arctan v + vx arctan v)dx + x2 arctan vdv = 0
x dx + x2 arctan vdv = 0

By separation of variables, divide the equation by x2 ,

dx
+ arctan v dv = 0
Z xZ
dx
+ arctan v dv = c
x
1
ln |x| + v arctan v − ln |v 2 + 1| = ln |c|
2
y
Since v = , then
x
1  y 2
   
y y 
ln |x| + arctan − ln  2 + 1 = ln |c|
x x 2 x
 2
y + x2 
  
y 
2x ln |x| + 2y arctan − x ln 
 = ln |c|
x x2 
 2
 y + x2 
  
y  + ln |c| − 2x ln |x|
2y arctan = x ln 
x x2 
 
y
2y arctan = x ln |y 2 + x2 | − 2x ln |x2 | + ln |c|
x
 2
 (y + x2 )c2 
  
y
2y arctan = x ln  
x x4 
Example 10.
Solve the equation
t(s2 + t2 )ds − s(s2 − t2 )dt = 0
Solution:
Let
s
s = vt; v=
t
ds = vdt + tdv

t(v 2 t2 + t2 )(vdt + tdv) − vt(v 2 t2 − t2 )dt = 0

[(v 3 t3 + vt3 ) − (v 3 t3 − vt3 )]dt + t2 (v 2 t2 + t2 )dv = 0
2vt3 dt + t4 (v 2 + 1)dv = 0

Divide the equation by vt4 to separate the variables.

2vt3 dt + t4 (v 2 + 1)dv = 0
dt v 2 + 1
2 + dv = 0
t v
dt dv
2 + vdv + =0
t v
1
2 ln |t| + v 2 + ln |v| = ln |c|
2
s
Since v = , then
t
 2  
1 s s
2 ln |t| + + ln   = ln |c|
2 t t
 2
1 s
2 ln |t| + + ln |s| − ln |t| = ln |c|
2 t2
s2
ln |s| + ln |t| − ln |c| + 2 = 0
  2t2
 st  s
ln   + 2 = 0
c 2t
 
 st 
2t2 ln   + s2 = 0
c
 
2 2
 st 
s = −2t ln  
c
2 2
s = −2t ln |cst|
Exact Equations

If z = f (x, y) is a function of two variables with continuous partial derivatives in a

region R of the xy-plane, then its differential is
∂f ∂f
dz = dx + dy (1)
∂x ∂y

In a special case when f (x, y) = c, where c is a constant, then (1) implies

∂f ∂f
dx + dy = 0 (2)
∂x ∂y

In other words, given a one-parameter family of functions f (x, y) = c, we can generate a

first-order differential equation by computing the differential of both sides of the equality.

Definition
A differential expression M (x, y)dx + N (x, y)dy is an exact differential in a region R of
the xy-plane if it corresponds to the differential of some function f (x, y) defined in R. A
first-order differential equation in the form

M (x, y)dx + N (x, y)dy = 0

is said to be an exact equation if the expression on the left-hand side is an exact differential.

Criterion for an Exact Differential

Let M (x, y) and N (x, y) be continuous and have continuous first partial derivatives in the
rectangular region R defined by a < x < b, c < y < d. Then a necessary and sufficient
condition that M (x, y)dx + N (x, y)dy be an exact differential is

∂M ∂N
=
∂y ∂x

Method of Solution
Given an equation M (x, y)dx + N (x, y)dy = 0, which is exact. Then there exist a function
F (x, y) for which
∂F
= M (x, y)
∂x
Solving for F (x, y), Z
F (x, y) = M (x, y)dx + T (y)
 ∂F
where the arbitrary function T (y) is the constant of integration. And assuming = N (x, y)
∂y
Z
∂
M (x, y) dx + T 0 (y) = N (x, y)
∂y
Giving us Z
0 ∂
T (y) = N (x, y) − M (x, y) dx
∂y
Finally integrating to find T (y) with respect to y.

Now, the implicit solution of the equation is

F (x, y) = c

We can also make an assumption at the start as

∂F
= N (x, y)
∂y
Analogously, we have Z
F (x, y) = N (x, y) dy + T (x)

and Z
0 ∂
T (x) = M (x, y) − N (x, y) dy
∂x
The implicit solution is still
F (x, y) = c
Example 1.
Solve the equation
(x + 2y)dx + (2x + y)dy = 0
Solution:
Test for exactness,
∂M ∂N
= 2; =2
∂y ∂x
∂M ∂N
Since = , therefore the equation is exact. Hence, its solution is F = c, where
∂y ∂x
∂F ∂F
= M; =N
∂x ∂y
Using
∂F
= M = x + 2y
∂x
Solving for F by integrating both sides with respect to x, holding y as constant,
Z Z
∂F = (x + 2y)∂x
x2
F = + 2xy + T (y)
2
To solve for T (x), find the derivative of F with respect to y
∂F
= 2x + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N , then
∂y
2x + T 0 (y) = 2x + y
T 0 (y) = y
Z Z
0
T (y)dy = ydy
y2
T (y) =
2
Therefore,
x2 y2
F = + 2xy +
2 2
And the set of solutions of the given equation is defined by
x2 y2
+ 2xy + =c or x2 + 4xy + y 2 = c
2 2
Example 2.

Solve the equation

(2xy − 3x2 )dx + (x2 + 2y)dy = 0
Solution:
Test for exactness,
∂M ∂N
= 2x = 2x
∂y ∂x
∂M ∂N
Since = , therefore the equation is exact. Hence, its solution is F = c, where
∂y ∂x
∂F
= x2 + 2y
∂y
and
∂F
= 2xy − 3x2
∂x
∂F
Solve for F using = x2 + 2y’
∂y

∂F = x2 + 2y∂y
2y 2
F = x2 y + + T (x)
2
F = x2 y + y 2 + T (x)

∂F
Solve for T (x), find the derivative of F with respect to x that is, = 2xy − T 0 (x)
∂x
∂F
Since = N then,
∂x
2xy + T 0 (x) = 2xy − 3x2
T 0 (x) = −3x2
T (x) = −x3

Therefore, the desired set of solutions of the given equation is defined by

x2 y + y 2 − x3 = C
Example 3.
Solve the equation

cos (2y) − 3x2 y 2 dx + cos (2y) − 2x sin 2y − 2x3 y dy = 0

   

Solution:
∂M ∂N
= −2 sin (2y) − 6x2 y = −2 sin (2y) − 6x2 y
∂y ∂x
Hence, the equation is exact and its solution is F = c, where
∂F
= cos (2y) − 3x2 y 2
∂x
and
∂F
= cos (2y) − 2x sin (2y) − 2x3 y
∂y
Solving for F ,
∂F
= cos (2y) − 3x2 y 2
∂x
∂F = cos (2y) − 3x2 y 2 ∂x
 

F = x cos (2y) − x3 y 2 + T (y)

Solving for T (y), obtain the derivative of F with respect to y, we have

∂F
= −2x sin (2y) − 2x3 y + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N , then
∂y
−2x sin (2y) − 2x3 y + T 0 (y) = cos (2y) − 2x sin2 y − 2x3 y
T 0 (y) = cos (2y)dy
1
T (y) = sin (2y)
2
Therefore,
1
F = x cos (2y) − x3 y 2 +sin (2y)
2
and the desired set of solutions of the given equation is defined by
1
x cos (2y) − x3 y 2 + sin (2y) = c
2
Example 4.

Solve the equation

(2xy − tan y)dx + (x2 − x sec2 y)dy = 0
Solution:
∂M ∂N
= 2x − sec2 y = 2x − sec2 y
∂y ∂x
Hence, the equation is exact and its solution is F = c, where
∂F
= 2xy − tan y
∂x
and
∂F
= x2 − x sec2 y
∂y
∂F
Solving for F using = M,
∂x
∂F
= 2xy − tan y
∂x
∂F = (2xy − tan y)∂x
F = x2 y − x tan y + T (y)

Solving for T (y), find the derivative of F with respect to y,

∂F
= x2 − x sec2 y + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N , then
∂y

x2 − x sec2 y + T 0 (y) = x2 − x sec2 y

T 0 (y) = 0
T (y) = c1

Therefore,
F = x2 y − x tan y + c1
and the set of solutions of the given equation is defined by

x2 y − x tan y = c
Example 5.
Solve the equation  
cos x cos y − cot x dx − sin x sin ydy = 0
Solution:
∂M ∂N
= −x cos x sin y = −x cos x sin y
∂y ∂x
Hence, the equation is exact and its solution is F = c, where
∂F ∂F
= cos x cos y − cot x and = − sin x sin y
∂x ∂y
Solving for F using
∂F
=N
∂y
we have
∂F
= − sin x sin y
∂y
∂F = − sin x sin y∂y
F = sin x cos y + T (x)
∂F
Solving for T (y) find , we have
∂x
∂F
= cos x cos y + T 0 (x)
∂x
∂F
Since = M , then
∂x
cos x cos y + T 0 (x) = cos x cos y − cot x
T 0 (x) = − cot x
T (x) = − ln | sin x|

Therefore,

F = sin x cos y − ln | sin x|

and the set of solutions of the given equation is defined by

sin x cos y − ln | sin x| = ln |c|

or
sin x cos y = ln |c sin x|
Example 6.
Solve the equation    
r + sin θ − cos θ dr + r sin θ + cos θ dθ = 0
Solution:
∂M ∂N
= cos θ + sin θ = cos θ + sin θ
∂θ ∂r
Hence, the equation is exact and its solution is F = c, where
∂F   ∂F  
= r sin θ + cos θ and = r + sin θ − cos θ
∂θ ∂r
Solving for F using
∂F
=N
∂θ  
∂F = r sin θ + cos θ ∂θ
 
F = r − cos θ + sin θ + T (r)

∂F
Solving for T (r) obtain ,
∂r
∂F
= − cos θ + sin θ + T 0 (r)
∂r
∂F
Since = M , then
∂r

− cos θ + sin θ + T 0 (r) = r + sin θ − cos θ

T 0 (r) = r
1
T (r) = r2
2
Therefore,
 1
F = r − cos θ + sin θ + r2

2
and the set of solutions of the given equation is defined by
 1
r − cos θ + sin θ + r2 = c

2
−2r cos θ + 2r sin θ + r2 = c
Example 7.
Solve the equation  
2x + y cos (xy) dx + x cos (xy)dy = 0
Solution:
∂M
= −xy sin (xy) + cos (xy)
∂y
∂N
= −xy sin (xy) + cos (xy)
∂x

Hence, the equation is exact and its solution is F = c, where

∂F
= x cos (xy)
∂y
and
∂F
= 2x + y cos (xy)
∂x
∂F
Using = N to solve for F we have,
∂y
∂F
= x cos (xy)
∂y
∂F = x cos (xy)∂y
F = sin (xy) + T (x)
∂F
Solving for T (x) find , we have
∂x
∂F
= y cos (xy) + T 0 (x)
∂x

∂F
Since = M , then
∂x
y cos (xy) + T 0 (x) = 2x + y cos (xy)
T 0 (x) = 2x
T (x) = x2
Therefore,
F = sin (xy) + x2 = c
and the set of solutions of the given equation is defined by
sin (xy) + x2 = c
Example 8.
Solve the equation
2 2
2x 3x + y − ye−x dx + x2 + 3y 2 + e−x dy = 0
 

Solution:
∂M 2 ∂N 2
= 2x − 2xe−x = 2x − 2xe−x
∂y ∂x
∂M ∂N
Since = , therefore the equation is exact. Hence, its solution is F = c, where
∂y ∂x
∂F 2
= M = 2x 3x + y − ye−x

∂x
∂F 2
= N = x2 + 3y 2 + e−x
∂y
Solving for F using
∂F
=N
∂y
then
∂F 2
= x2 + 3y 2 + e−x
∂y
2
∂F = (x2 + 3y 2 + e−x )∂y
2
F = x2 y + y 3 + yex + T (x)
Solving for T (x) get the derivative of F with respect to x we have,
∂F 2
= 2xy − 2xye−x + T 0 (x)
∂x
∂F
Since = M then,
∂x
2 2
2xy − 2xye−x + T 0 (x) = 2x 3x + y − ye−x

2 2
2xy − 2xye−x + T 0 (x) = 6x2 + 2xy − 2xye−x
T 0 (x) = 6x2
T (x) = 2x3
Therefore,
2
F = x2 y + y 3 + yex + 2x3
and the set of solutions of the given equation is defined by
2
x2 y + y 3 + yex + 2x3 = c
Example 9.
Solve the equation
3y(x2 − 1)dx + (x3 + 8y − 3x)dy = 0
when x = 0 and y = 1.

Solution:
∂M ∂N
= 3(x2 − 1) = 3(x2 − 1)
∂y ∂x
∂M ∂N
Since = , therefore the equation is exact. Hence, its solution is F = c, where
∂y ∂x
∂F ∂F
= M = 3y(x2 − 1) = N = x3 + 8y − 3x
∂x ∂y
Solving for F using
∂F
=M
∂x
then
∂F
= 3y(x2 − 1)
∂x
∂F = 3y(x2 − 1)∂x
 3 
x
F = 3y − x + T (y)
3
Solving for T (x), find the derivative of F with respect of y
 3 
∂F x
=3 − x + T 0 (y)
∂y 3
∂F
Since = N , then
∂y
 3 
x
3 − x + T 0 (y) = x3 + 8y − 3x
3
T 0 (y) = 8y
T (y) = 4y 2

Therefore,
x3
 
F = 3y − x + 4y 2
3
and the set of solutions of the given equation is defined by
 3 
x
3y − x + 4y 2 = c
3
x3 y − 3xy + 4y 2 = c

When x = 0 and y = 1

x3 y − 3xy + 4y 2 = c
c=4

Finally, the solution to the given equation is

x3 y − 3xy + 4y 2 = 4
x(x2 − 3) = 4(1 − y 2 )
Linear Equation of Order One

The first-order differential equation in the form

dy
a1 (x) + a0 (x)y = g(x)
dx
is said to be a linear equation in the dependent variable y.

Standard Form

By dividing both sides of the linear equation by a1 (x), we obtain a more useful form,
the standard form, of a linear equation,
dx
+ P (x)y = Q(x)
dy

Introduction of the Integrating Factor

Suppose a linear equation in the standard form, there exist an integrating factor v(x) >
0, a function of x alone. Then the equation
 
dy
v(x) + P (x)y = v(x)Q(x)
dx
must be an exact equation. The equation can be written in the form

M (x, y) dx + N (x, y) dy = 0

with
M (x, y) = v(x)P (x)y − v(x)Q(x)
in which v(x), P (x) and Q(x) are functions of x alone.

If the equation is exact, it follows the criterion that

∂M ∂N
=
∂y ∂x
Hence, v(x) satisfy the equation
d
v(x)P (x) = v(x)
dx
Solving for v(x), R
P (x)dx
v(x) = e
 Multiplying v(x) to the standard form

P (x)dx dy
R R R
P (x)dx P (x)dx
e + P (x)ye = Q(x)e
dx
The left member of the equation is actually the derivative of the function
R
P (x)dx
ye

and the right member is a function of x alone. Hence, the equation

P (x)dx dy
R R R
P (x)dx P (x)dx
e + P (x)ye = Q(x)e
dx
is exact.

The General Solution of a First-order Linear Equation

From the previous discussion, after determining the integrating factor v(x), we can
now find the solution of a first-order linear equation
dy
+ P (x)y = Q(x)
dx
and from
P (x)dx dy
R R R
P (x)dx P (x)dx
e + P (x)ye = Q(x)e
dx
From which, we have the general solution
R
Z R
P (x)dx
ye = Q(x)e P (x)dx dx + c
Example 1.

Solve the equation

dy y
+ = x4
dx x
Solution:
1
Here P (x) = and Q(x) = x4
x
Solving for the integrating factor we have,
1
R R
P (x)dx dx
e =e x
R
e P (x)dx
= eln |x|
R
P (x)dx
e =x

Therefore the solution is defined by

Z
yx = x4 (x)dx + c
Z
xy = x5 dx + c
1
xy = x6 + c
6
6xy = x6 + c
x6 − 6xy = c
Example 2.

Solve the equation

dy
+ xy = x
dx
Solution:
Where P (x) = x and Q(x) = x.

Solving for the integrating factor we have,

R R
P (x)dx xdx
e =e
x2
R
P (x)dx
e =e2

Therefore the solution is defined by

Z
x2
 x2 
ye 2 = x e 2 dx + c
x2 x2
ye 2 = e 2 + c
x2
y = 1 + ce− 2
Example 3.

Solve the equation

y 0 + y cot x = x
Solution:
Where P (x) = cot x and Q(x) = x

Solving for the integrating factor we have,

R R
P (x)dx cot xdx
e =e
R
e P (x)dx
= eln | sin x|
R
P (x)dx
e = sin x

Therefore the solution is defined by

Z
y sin x = x(sin x)dx + c

y sin x = −x cos x + sin x + c

y sin x − sin x + x cos x = c

dividing the equation by sin x, then

y − 1 + x cot x = c csc x
y + x cot x + c csc x = 1
Example 4.

Solve the equation

y 0 = csc x − y cot x
Solution:
In standard form the given equation can be written as
dy
+ y cot x = csc x
dx
where P (x) = cot x and Q(x) = csc x
Solving for the intgerating factor we have,
R R
P (x)dx cot xdx
e =e
= eln | sin x|
R
P (x)dx
e = sin x

Therefore the solution is defined by

Z
y sin x = csc x(sin x)dx + c
Z
y sin x = dx + c

y sin x = x + c
Example 5.

Solve the equation

(x4 + 2y)dx − xdy = 0
Solution:
The given equation can be written as
 
1 4 1
(x + 2y)dx − xdy = 0 ·
−xdx −xdx
4
dy x + 2y
− =0
dx x
dy 2y
− = x3
dx x
2
where P (x) = − and Q(x) = x3
x
Solving for the integrating factor we have,
2
R R
P (x)dx dx
e =e x
R
e P (x)dx
= e−2 ln |x|
−2 )
R
P (x)dx
e = eln (x
R
e P (x)dx
= x−2

Therefore the solution is defined by

Z
−2
yx = x3 (x−2 )dx + c
Z
y
= xdx + c
x2
y 1
= x+c
x2 2
2y = x4 + 2x2 · c
2y = x4 + cx2
Example 6.

Solve the equation

(y − cos2 x)dx + cos xdy = 0
Solution:
The given equation can be written as
 
1 2 1
(y − cos x)dx + cos xdy = 0 ·
cos xdx cos xdx
dy
+ y sec x = cos x
dx
where P (x) = sec x and Q(x) = cos x

Solving for the integrating factor we have,

R R
P (x)dx sec xdx
e =e
R
e P (x)dx
= eln | sec x+tan x|
R
P (x)dx
e = sec x + tan x

Therefore the solution is defined by

Z


y sec x + tan x = cos x(sec x + tan x)dx + c
Z


y sec x + tan x = (1 + sin x)dx + c


y sec x + tan x = x − cos x + c
Example 7.

Solve the equation

(y − x + xy cot x)dx + xdy = 0
Solution:
Expressing the given equation in its standard form,
 
1 1
(y − x + xy cot x)dx + xdy0 = 0 ·
xdx xdx
 
dy 1
+ + cot x y = 1
dx x
 
1
where P (x) = + cot x and Q(x) = 1
x
Solving for the integrating factor we have,
R R 1

P (x)dx +cot x dx
e =e x
R
e P (x)dx
= eln |x|+ln | sin x|
R
e P (x)dx)
= eln |x sin x|
R
P (x)dx
e = x sin x

Therefore the solution is defined by

Z
y x sin x) = 1(x sin x)dx + c
Z
xy sin x = x sin xdx + c

xy sin x = −x cos x + sin x + c

Example 8.

Solve the equation

vdx + (2x + 1 − vx)dv = 0
Solution:
Rewriting the given equation in its standard form, we have
 
1 1
vdx + (2x + 1 − vx)dv = 0 ·
vdv vdv
 
dx 2−v 1
+ x=−
dv v v
 
2−v 1
where P (v) = and Q(v) = −
v v
Solving for the integrating factor we have,


2−v
R R
P (x)dx dx
e =e v
 
ln(v 2 )−v
R
P (x)dx
e =e
R
e P (x)dx
= v 2 e−v

Therefore, the solution is defined by

Z
2 −v 1
xv e = − (v 2 e−v )dv + c
v
Z
2 −v
xv e = −ve−v dv + c

xv 2 e−v = −ve−v − e−v + c

1
1
xv 2 e−v = −ve−v − e−v + c −v


e−v e
2 ev
v x = −v − 1 + ce
Example 9.

Solve the equation

(1 + cos x)y 0 = sin x(sin x + sin x cos x − y)
Solution:
Rewriting the given equation, we have

(1 + cos x)y 0 = sin x(sin x + sin x cos x − y)

sin x[sin x(1 + cos x) − y]
y0 =
1 + cos x
y sin x
y 0 = sin2 −
1 + cos x
dx sin x
+ y = sin2 x
dy 1 + cos x
sin x
where P (x) = and Q(x) = sin2 x
1 + cos x
Solving for the intgerating factor we have,
sin x
R R
P (x)dx dx
e =e 1+cos x
R
e P (x)dx
= e− ln |1+cos x|
R
e P (x)dx
= (1 + cos x)−1

Therefore, the solution is defined by

Z
−1
y(1 + cos x) = sin2 x(1 + cos x)−1 dx + c
1 − cos2 x
Z
y
= dx + c
1 + cos x 1 + cos x
Z
y
= (1 − cos x)dx + c
1 + cos x
y
= x − sin x + c
1 + cos x
Integrating Factors Found by Inspection

It has been found out that integrating factor is an aid in finding a solution of linear
equations. At present we are concerned enough to enable us to find integrating factors by
inspection. The ability to do this depends largely upon the recognition of certain common
exact differentials and upon experience.

The following are the exact differentials that frequently occur:

d(xy) = x dy + y dx (1)
 
x y dx − x dy
d = (2)
y y2
 
y x dy − y dx
d = (3)
x x2
  
x y dx − x dy
d Tan−1 = (4)
y x2 + y 2

In this lecture, some equations when terms are reduced to exact differentials becomes
a more recognizable differential equation. Hence, solving them becomes easier.
Example 1.
Solve the equation
y(2xy + 1)dx − xdy = 0
Solution:
y(2xy + 1)dx − xdy = 0
2xy 2 dx + ydx − xdy = 0
 
1 2 1
2
2xy dx + ydx − xdy = 0 · 2
y y
ydx − xdy
+ 2xdx = 0
y2
 
x
d + 2xdx = 0
y
Z   Z
x
d + 2xdx = c
y
x
+ x2 = c
y
x + x2 y =cy
x(1 + xy) = cy

Example 2.
Solve the equation
y(y 3 − x)dx + x(y 3 + x)dy = 0
Solution:
y(y 3 − x)dx + x(y 3 + x)dy = 0
y 3 (ydx + xdy) − x(ydx − xdy) = 0
 
x ydx − xdy
ydx + xdy − =0
y y2
 
x ydx − xdy
d(xy) − =0
y y2
Z  
x ydx − xdy
Z
d(xy) − =c
y y2
( xy )2
xy − =c
2
x2
2xy − 2 = c
y
2xy − x2 = cy 2
3
Example 3.
Solve the equation
(x3 y 3 + 1)dx + x4 y 2 dy = 0
Solution:
(x3 y 3 + 1)dx + x4 y 2 dy = 0
x3 y 2 (xdy + ydx) + dx = 0
 
1 3 2 1
x y (xdy + ydx) + dx = 0 ·
x x
dx
x2 y 2 (xdy + ydx) + =0
Z Z x
dx
(xy)2 (xdy + ydx) + =c
x
(xy)3
+ ln |x| = ln |c|
3
x3 y 3 + 3 ln |x| = 3 ln |c|
x3 y 3 = −3 ln |cx|

Example 4.
Solve the equation
x4 (ydx + xdy) + y 2 (xdy − ydx) = 0
Solution:
x4 (ydx + xdy) + y 2 (xdy − ydx) = 0
 
1 4 2 1
4
x (ydx + xdy) + y (xdy − ydx) = 0 · 4
x x
2
 
y xdy − ydx
(xdy + ydx) + 2 =0
x x2
 y 2  y 
d(xy) + d =0
x x
Z Z  2  
y y
d(xy) + d =c
x x
1  y 3
xy + · =c
3 x
y3
3xy + 3 = c
x
3x y + y 3 = cx3
4

y(3x4 + y 2 ) = cx3
Example 5.

Solve the equation

y(y 2 + 1)dx + x(y 2 − 1)dy = 0
Solution:

y(y 2 + 1)dx + x(y 2 − 1)dy = 0

y 2 (ydx + xdy) + (ydx − xdy) = 0
 
1 2 1
2
y (ydx + xdy) + (ydx − xdy) = 0 · 2
y y
ydx − xdy
(xdy + ydx) + =0
y2
 
x
d(xy) + d =0
y
Z Z  
x
d(xy) + d =c
y
x
xy + = c
y
2
xy + x = cy
x(y 2 + 1) = cy
Example 6.

Solve the equation

y(x3 − y 5 )dx − x(x3 + y 5 )dy = 0
Solution:

y(x3 − y 5 )dx − x(x3 + y 5 )dy = 0

x3 (ydx − xdy) − y 5 (xdy + ydx) = 0
 3  
x ydx − xdy
− (xdy + ydx) = 0
y3 y2
 3  
x x
d − d(xy) = 0
y y
Z  3   Z
x x
d − d(xy) = c
y y
 4
1 x
− xy = c
4 y
x4 − 4xy 5 = 4cy 4
x4 = y 4 (c + 4xy)

Example 7.

Solve the equation

(x3 + xy 2 + y)dx + (y 3 + x2 y + x)dy = 0
Solution:

(x3 + xy 2 + y)dx + (y 3 + x2 y + x)dy = 0

x3 dx + y 3 dy + xy(xdy + ydx) + (xdy + ydx) = 0
Z Z Z Z
3 3
x dx + y dy + xy d(xy) + d(xy) = c
x4 y 4 x2 y 2
+ + + xy = c
4 4 2
x4 + y 4 + 2x2 y 2 + 4xy = 4c
(x2 + y 2 )2 = c − 4xy
Example 8.

Solve the equation

y(x2 + y 2 − 1)dx + x(x2 + y 2 + 1)dy = 0
Solution:

y(x2 + y 2 − 1)dx + x(x2 + y 2 + 1)dy = 0

(x2 + y 2 )(xdy + ydx) + (xdy − ydx) = 0
 
1 2 2 1
(x + y )(xdy + ydx) + (xdy − ydx) = 0 ·
(x2 + y2) (x2 + y2)
xdy − ydx
(xdy + ydx) + =0
x2 + y 2
  
−1 y
d(xy) + d Tan =0
x
Z Z   
−1 y
d(xy) + d Tan =0
x
 
−1 y
xy + Tan =c
x

Example 9.

Solve the equation

y(x3 exy )dx + x(y + x3 exy )dy = 0
Solution:

y(x3 exy )dx + x(y + x3 exy )dy = 0

 
1 3 xy 1
3
x e (xdy + ydx) + y(xdy − ydx) = 0 · 3
x x
  
y xdy − ydx
exy (xdy + ydx) + =0
x x2
y y
exy d(xy) + d =0
Z Z x x
y y
exy d(xy) + d =c
x x
xy 1  y 2
e + =c
2 x
2x2 exy + y 2 = cx2
Integrating Factors Found by Formula

Recall from Linear Equation, the form y 0 + P (x)y = Q(x) can be transformed into an
exact equation when we multiply the equation by an integrating factor. The same basic idea
sometimes apply for a non-exact differential equation M (x, y)dx + N (x, y)dy = 0. That is,
it is sometimes possible to find an integrating factor µ(x, y) so that after multiplying, the
left-hand side of
µ(x, y)M (x, y) dx + µ(x, y)N (x, y) dy = 0 (1)
is an exact differential. In an attempt to find µ(x, y), we return to the criterion for exactness.
The equation (1) is exact if and only if
∂   ∂  
µ(x, y)M (x, y) = µ(x, y)N (x, y)
∂y ∂x
By the product rule of differentiation (subscript notation means partial derivatives)

µMy + M µy = µNx + N µx

or
µx N − µy M = (My − Nx ) µ (2)
Although M , N , My and Nx are known functions of x and y, the difficulty here in determining
the unknown µ(x, y) from (2) is that we must solve a partial differential equation. Since we
are not yet prepared for that, we make simplifying assumptions.

Suppose µ is a function of only one variable, e.g., µ depends only on x. In this case
dµ
µx = and µy = 0
dx
so (2) can be written as
dµ My − Nx
= ·µ (3)
dx N

My − Nx
We still at an impasse of the quotient depends on both x and y. However,
N
My − Nx
if all obvious algebraic simplifications are made, the quotient turns out to depend
N
solely on the variable x, then (3) is a first-order ordinary differential equation. We can finally
determine µ because (3) is separable and linear. It follows that
R My −Nx
dx
µ(x) = e N
 In the like manner, it follows from (2) if µ depends only on the variable y, then

dµ My − Nx
=− ·µ (4)
dy M
My − Nx
In this case, if − is a function of y alone, then we can solve (4) for µ to be
M
R My −Nx
− dy
µ(y) = e M

We summarize the results for the differential equation

M (x, y) dx + N (x, y) dy = 0

My − Nx R My −Nx
dx
• If is a function of x alone, the integrating factor is e N .
N
My − Nx R My −Nx
• If − is a function of y alone, the integrating factor is e − M dy .
M
Example 1.
Solve the equation
(x2 + y 2 + 1)dx + x(x − 2y)dy = 0 (1)
Solution:

Let,

M (x, y) = x2 + y 2 + 1
My = 2y

N (x, y) = x(x − 2y)

Nx = 2x − 2y

Using the formula,

My − Nx 2y − (2x − 2y)
=
N x(x − 2y)
My − Nx 4y − 2x
=
N x(x − 2y)
My − Nx 2
=−
N x
My − Nx
= µ(x)
N
Solving for the integrating factor,


− x2 dx
R
e = e−2 ln |x|


− x2 dx
R
−2 |
e = eln |x


− x2 dx
R
e = x−2

Multiply the integrating factor to (1)

x−2 [(x2 + y 2 + 1)dx + x(x − 2y)dy] = 0 · x−2

then, simplifying we have,

(1 + x−2 y 2 + x−2 )dx + x−1 (x − 2y)dy = 0 (2)

Test for exactness of Equation (2),

M (x, y) = 1 + x−2 y 2 + x−2

∂M
= 2x−2 y
∂y
 N (x, y) = x−1 (x − 2y)
∂N
= 2x−2 y
∂x
∂M ∂N ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = M,
∂x ∂y ∂x
Z Z
1 + x−2 y 2 + x−2 ∂x


∂F =

F = −y 2 x−1 − x−1 + x + T (y)

∂F
= −2x−1 y + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N (x, y), then
∂y

−2x−1 y + T 0 (y) = x−1 (x − 2y)

T 0 (y) = 1
T (y) = y

Therefore,

F = −y 2 x−1 − x−1 + x + T (y)

F = −y 2 x−1 − x−1 + x + y

And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

−y 2 x−1 − x−1 + x + y = c
−y 2 x−1 − x−1 + x + y = c

or

−x2 + y 2 − xy + 1 = cx
Example 2.
Solve the equation
2y(x2 − y + x)dx + (x2 − 2y)dy = 0 (1)
Solution:

Let

M (x, y) = 2y(x2 − y + x)
My = 2x4 − 4y + 2x

N (x, y) = x2 − 2y
Nx = 2x

Using the formula,

My − Nx 2x4 − 4y + 2x − 2x
=
N x2 − 2y
My − Nx 2(x2 − 2y)
=
N x2 − 2y
My − Nx
=2
N
My − Nx
= µ(x)
N
Solving for the integrating factor, R
2dx
e = e2x
Multiply the integrating factor to (1)

e2x [2y(x2 − y + x)dx + (x2 − 2y)dy] = 0 · e2x

Simplifying,
2ye2x (x2 − y + x)dx + e2x (x2 − 2y)dy = 0 (2)
Test for exactness of Equation (2),

M (x, y) = 2ye2x (x2 − y + x)

∂M
= 2e2x (x2 + x − 2y)
∂y

N (x, y) = e2x (x2 − 2y)

∂N
= 2e2x (x2 + x − 2y)
∂x
 ∂M ∂N ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = N,
∂y ∂x ∂y
Z Z
∂F = e2x (x2 − 2y)∂y

F = x2 ye2x − y 2 e2x + T (x)

∂F
= 2x2 ye2x + 2xye2x − 2y 2 e2x + T 0 (x)
∂x
∂F
Since = M (x, y), then
∂x
2x2 ye2x + 2xye2x − 2y 2 e2x + T 0 (x) = 2ye2x (x2 − y + x)
2x2 ye2x + 2xye2x − 2y 2 e2x + T 0 (x) = 2x2 ye2x − 2y 2 e2x + 2xye2x
T 0 (x) = 0
T (x) = c

Therefore,

F = x2 ye2x − y 2 e2x + T (x)

F = x2 ye2x − y 2 e2x + c

And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

x2 ye2x − y 2 e2x + c = c
x2 ye2x − y 2 e2x = c

or

y(x2 − y) = ce−2x
Example 3.
Solve the equation
y(2x − y + 1)dx + x(3x − 4y + 3)dy = 0 (1)
Solution:

Let

M (x, y) = y(2x − y + 1)
∂M
= 2x − 2y + 1
∂y

N (x, y) = x(3x − 4y + 3)
∂N
= 6x − 4y + 3
∂x
Using the formula,
My − Nx 2x − 2y + 1 − (6x − 4y + 3)
=
M y(2x − y + 1)
My − Nx −2(2x − y + 1)
=
M y(2x − y + 1)
My − Nx 2
=−
M y
My − Nx
= µ(y)
M
Solving for the integrating factor,
− y2 dx
R
e− = e2 ln y
− y2 dx
R
e− = y2

Multiply the integrating factor to (1)

y 2 [y(2x − y + 1)dx + x(3x − 4y + 3)dy] = 0 · y 2

Simplifying,
y 3 (2x − y + 1)dx + xy 2 (3x − 4y + 3)dy = 0]y 2 (2)
Test for exactness of Equation (2),

M (x, y) = y 3 (2x − y + 1)
∂M
= 6xy 2 − 4y 3 + 3y 2
∂y
 N (x, y) = xy 2 (3x − 4y + 3)
∂N
= 6xy 2 − 4y 3 + 3y 2
∂x
∂M ∂N ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = M,
∂y ∂x ∂x
Z Z
∂F = y 3 (2x − y + 1)∂x

F = x2 y 3 − xy 4 + xy 3 + T (y)
∂F
= 3x2 y 2 − 4xy 3 + 3xy 2 + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N (x, y), then
∂y

3x2 y 2 − 4xy 3 + 3xy 2 + T 0 (y) = xy 2 (3x − 4y + 3)

3x2 y 2 − 4xy 3 + 3xy 2 + T 0 (y) = 3x2 y 2 − 4xy 3 + 3xy 2
T 0 (x) = 0
T (x) = c

Therefore,

F = x2 y 3 − xy 4 + xy 3 + T (y)
F = x2 y 3 − xy 4 + xy 3 + c

And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

x2 y 3 − xy 4 + xy 3 + c = c
x2 y 3 − xy 4 + xy 3 = c

or

xy 3 (x − y + 1) = c
Example 4.
Solve the equation
y(4x + y)dx − 2(x2 − y)dy = 0 (1)
Solution:

Let

M (x, y) = y(4x + y)
∂M
= 4x + 2y
∂y

N (x, y) = 2(x2 − y)
∂N
= −4x
∂x
Using the formula,
My − Nx 4x + 2y − (−4x)
=
M y(4x + y)
My − Nx 2(4x + y)
=
M y(4x + y)
My − Nx 2
=
M y
My − Nx
= µ(y)
M
Solving for the integrating factor,
2
R
e− y
dx
= e−2 ln y
2
R
e− y
dx
= y −2

Multiply the integrating factor to (1)

y −2 [y(4x + y)dx − 2(x2 − y)dy = 0]y −2

Simplifying,
y −1 (4x + y)dx − 2y −2 (x2 − y)dy = 0 (2)
Test for exactness of (2),

M (x, y) = y −1 (4x + y)
∂M 4x
=− 2
∂y y
 N (x, y) = −2y −2 (x2 − y)
∂N 4x
=− 2
∂x y
∂M ∂N ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = M,
∂y ∂x ∂x
Z Z
∂F = y −1 (4x + y)∂x
2x2
F = + x + T (y)
y
∂F 2x
= − 2 + T 0 (y)
∂y y
∂F
Since = N (x, y), then
∂y

2x2
− + T 0 (y) = −2y −2 (x2 − y)
y2
2x2 2x2 2
− 2 + T 0 (y) = − 2 +
y y y
2
T 0 (y) =
y
T (y) = 2 ln |y|
T (y) = ln (y 2 )

Therefore,

2x2
F = + x + T (y)
y
2x2
F = + x + ln (y 2 )
y

And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

2x2
+ x + ln (y 2 ) = c
y
2x2
+ x + ln (y 2 ) = c
y
or

2x2 + xy + y ln (y 2 ) = cy
Example 5.

Solve the equation

(xy + 1)dx + x(x + 4y − 2)dy = 0 (1)
Solution:

Let

M (x, y) = (xy + 1)
∂M
=x
∂y

N (x, y) = x(x + 4y − 2)
∂N
= 2x + 4y − 2
∂x
Using the formula,
My − Nx x − 2x + 4y − 2
=
N x(x + 4y − 2)
My − Nx −(x + 4y − 2)
=
N x(x + 4y − 2)
My − Nx 1
=−
N x
My − Nx
= µ(x)
N
Solving for the integrating factor,
− x1 dx
R
e = e− ln |x|
− x1 dx
R
e = x−1

Multiply the integrating factor to (1)

x−1 [(xy + 1)dx + x(x + 4y − 2)dy = 0]x−1

Simplifying,
x−1 (xy + 1)dx + (x + 4y − 2)dy = 0 (2)
Test for exactness of (2),

M (x, y) = x−1 (xy + 1)

∂M
=1
∂y
 N (x, y) = (x + 4y − 2)
∂N
=1
∂x
∂M ∂N ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = M,
∂y ∂x ∂x
Z Z  
1
∂F = y+ ∂x
x
F = xy + ln |x| + T (y)
∂F
= x + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N (x, y), then
∂y

x + T 0 (y) = x + 4y − 2
T 0 (y) = 4y − 2
T (y) = 2y 2 − 2y

Therefore,

F = xy + ln |x| + T (y)
F = xy + ln |x| + 2y 2 − 2y

And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

xy + ln |x| + 2y 2 − 2y = C
Example 6.

Solve the equation

(2y 2 + 3xy − 2y + 6x)dx + x(x + 2y − 1)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:

Let

M (x, y) = 2y 2 + 3xy − 2y + 6x
∂M
= 4y + 3x − 2
∂y

N (x, y) = x(x + 2y − 1)
∂N
= 2x + 2y − 1
∂x
Using the formula,
My − Nx 4y + 3x − 2 − (2x + 2y − 1)
=
N x(x + 2y − 1)
My − Nx x + 2y − 1
=
N x(x + 2y − 1)
My − Nx 1
=
N x
My − Nx
= µ(x)
N
Solving for the integrating factor,
1
R
e x
dx
= eln |x|
1
R
dx
e x =x

Multiply the integrating factor to (1),

x[(2y 2 + 3xy − 2y + 6x)dx + x(x + 2y − 1)dy = 0]x

x(2y 2 + 3xy − 2y + 6x)dx + x2 (x + 2y − 1)dy = 0 (2)

Test for exactness of (2),

M (x, y) = x(2y 2 + 3xy − 2y + 6x)

∂M
= 4xy + 3x2 − 2x
∂y
 N (x, y) = x2 (x + 2y − 1)
∂N
= 3x2 + 4xy − 2x
∂x
∂M ∂N ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = N,
∂y ∂x ∂y
Z Z
∂F = x2 (x + 2y − 1)∂y

F = x3 y + x2 y 2 − x2 y + T (x)
∂F
= 3x2 y + 2xy 2 − 2xy + T 0 (x)
∂x
∂F
Since = M (x, y), then
∂x
3x2 y + 2xy 2 − 2xy + T 0 (x) = x(2y 2 + 3xy − 2y + 6x)
3x2 y + 2xy 2 − 2xy + T 0 (x) = 2xy 2 + 3x2 y − 2xy + 6x2
T 0 (x) = 6x2
T (x) = 2x3

Therefore,

F = x3 y + x2 y 2 − x2 y + T (x)

F = x3 y + x2 y 2 − x2 y + 2x3

And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

x3 y + x2 y 2 − x2 y + 2x3 = c
x2 (xy + y 2 − y + 2x) = c
Example 7.

Solve the equation

y(y + 2x − 2)dx − 2(x + y)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
Let

M (x, y) = y(y + 2x − 2)
∂M
= 2y + 2x − 2
∂y

N (x, y) = −2(x + y)
∂N
= −2
∂x
Using the formula,

My − Nx 2y + 2x − 2 − (−2)
=
N −2(x + y)
My − Nx 2(x + y)
=
N −2(x + y)
My − Nx
= −1
N
My − Nx
= µ(x)
N
Solving for the integrating factor,
R
−dx
e = e−x

Multiply the integrating factor to (1)

e−x [y(y + 2x − 2)dx − 2(x + y)dy = 0]e−x

Simplifying,
e−x y(y + 2x − 2)dx − 2e−x (x + y)dy = 0 (2)
Test for exactness of (2),

M (x, y) = ye−x (y + 2x − 2)
∂M
= 2ye−x + 2xe−x − 2e−x
∂y
 N (x, y) = −2e−x (x + y)
∂N
= 2xe−x − 2e−x + 2ye−x
∂x
∂M 0 ∂N 0 ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = M,
∂y ∂x ∂x
Z Z
∂F = ye−x (y + 2x − 2)∂x

F = −y 2 e−x − 2xye−x + T (y)

∂F
= −2ye−x − 2xe−x + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N (x, y), then
∂y

−2ye−x − 2xe−x + T 0 (y) = −2e−x (x + y)

−2ye−x − 2xe−x + T 0 (y) = −2xe−x − 2ye−x
T 0 (y) = 0
T (y) = c

Therefore,

F = −y 2 e−x − 2xye−x + T (y)

F = −y 2 e−x − 2xye−x + c

And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

−y 2 e−x − 2xye−x + c = c
−y 2 e−x − 2xye−x = c
−ye−x (y + 2x) = c
y(y + 2x) = cex
Example 8.
Solve the equation
y 2 dx + (3xy + y 2 − 1)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
Let
M (x, y) = y 2
∂M
= 2y
∂y

N (x, y) = 3xy + y 2 − 1
∂N
= 3y
∂x
Using the formula,
My − Nx 2y − 3y
=
M y2
My − Nx 1
=−
M y
My − Nx
= µ(y)
M
Solving for the integrating factor,
− y1 dx
R
e− = eln |y|
− y1 dx
R
e− =y
Multiply the integrating factor to (1)
y[y 2 dx + (3xy + y 2 − 1)dy] = 0 · y
Simplifying,
y 3 dx + y(3xy + y 2 − 1)dy = 0 (2)
Test for exactness of (2),
M (x, y) = y 3
∂M
= 3y 2
∂y

N (x, y) = y(3xy + y 2 − 1)
∂N
= 3y 2
∂x
 ∂M ∂N ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = M,
∂y ∂x ∂x
Z Z
∂F = y 3 ∂x

F = xy 3 + T (y)
∂F
= 3xy 2 + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N (x, y), then
∂y

3xy 2 + T 0 (y) = y(3xy + y 2 − 1)

3xy 2 + T 0 (y) = 3xy 2 + y 3 − y
T 0 (y) = y 3 − y
y4 y2
T (y) = −
4 2
Therefore,

F = xy 3 + T (y)
y4 y2
F = xy 3 + −
4 2
And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

y4 y2
xy 3 + − =c
4 2
y4 y2
xy 3 + − =c
4 2
y 2 (4xy + y 2 − 2) = 4c
y 2 (4xy + y 2 − 2) = c
Example 9.

Solve the equation

2y(x + y + 2)dx + (y 2 − x2 − 4x − 1)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
Let

M (x, y) = 2y(x + y + 2)
∂M
= 2x + 4y + 4
∂y

N (x, y) = y 2 − x2 − 4x − 1
∂N
= −2x − 4
∂x
Using the formula,

My − Nx 2x + 4y + 4 − (−2x − 4)
=
M 2y(x + y + 2)
My − Nx 4(x + y + 2)
=
M 2y(x + y + 2)
My − Nx 2
=
M y
My − Nx
= µ(y)
M
Solving for the integrating factor,
2
R
e− y
dx
= e−2 ln |y| = y −2

Multiply the integrating factor to (1)

y −2 [2y(x + y + 2)dx + (y 2 − x2 − 4x − 1)dy] = 0 · y −2

Simplifying,
2y −1 (x + y + 2)dx + y −2 (y 2 − x2 − 4x − 1)dy = (2)
Test for exactness of (2),

M (x, y) = 2y −1 (x + y + 2)
∂M
= −2xy −2 − 4y −2
∂y
 N (x, y) = y −2 (y 2 − x2 − 4x − 1)
∂N
= −2xy −2 − 4y −2
∂x
∂M ∂N ∂F
Since = , therefore (2) is exact. Find the solution F = c, using = M,
∂y ∂x ∂x
Z Z
∂F = 2y −1 (x + y + 2)∂x

F = x2 y −1 + 2x + 4xy −1 + T (y)
∂F
= −x2 y 2 − 4xy −2 + T 0 (y)
∂y
∂F
Since = N (x, y), then
∂y

−x2 y 2 − 4xy −2 + T 0 (y) = y −2 (y 2 − x2 − 4x − 1)

−x2 y 2 − 4xy −2 + T 0 (y) = 1 − x2 y −2 − 4xy −2 − y −2
T 0 (y) = 1 − y −2
1
T (y) = y +
y
Therefore,

F = x2 y −1 + 2x + 4xy −1 + T (y)
1
F = x2 y −1 + 2x + 4xy −1 + y +
y

And the set of solutions of (1) is defined by

1
x2 y −1 + 2x + 4xy −1 + y + =c
y
x2 + 2xy + 4x + y 2 + 1 = c
Substitutions Suggested by the Equation

An equation in the form M (x, y)dx + N (x, y)dy = 0 may not yield at once (or at all)
to the methods discussed in the previous discussions. Even then the usefulness of these
methods will not be exhausted. It may be possible by some change of variables to transform
the equation into a type which we know how to solve.

A natural source of suggestions for useful transformations is the differential equation

itself. If a particular term or terms stand out in the equation it is worthwhile to take time
to study the equation after that term has been introduced as a new variable.

For example, in the equation

(x + 2y − 1)dx + 3(x + 2y)dy = 0

The term (x + 2y) appears twice in the equation and thus it attracts attention, hence we
may put
x + 2y = u
and, because no other terms of x and ystands out, we retain any one of the two.

Another equation,
(1 + 3x sin y)dx − x2 cos y dy = 0
the presence of both sin y and its differential cos y dy, and the fact that the variable y appears
in the equation in no other manner, leads us to put

u = sin y du = cos y dy

to obtain a differential equation in u and x.

Also, a differential equation in the form

dy
= f (Ax + By + C)
dx
can always be reduced to a variable separable equation by means of a substitution

u = Ax + By + C

wherein B 6= 0.
Example 1.
Solve
(3 tan x − 2 cos y) sec2 xdx + tan x sin ydy = 0 (1)
Solution:
Let

u = tan x
du = sec2 xdx

Then (1) becomes,

(3u − 2 cos y)du + u sin ydy = 0 (2)
Let

M (x, y) = 3u − 2 cos y
My = 2 sin y

and

N (x, y) = u sin y
Nx = sin y

Using the formula,

My − Nx sin y 1
= =
N u sin y u
Solving for the integrating factor, we have
1
R
du
e u = eln u = u

Multiply the integrating factor to (2),

 
u (3u − 2 cos y)du + u sin ydy = 0 · u
3u2 − 2u cos ydu + u2 sin ydy = 0
3u2 du − d[cos u2 ] = 0
Z Z
3u du − d[cos u2 ] = c
2

Then,
u3 − u2 cos y = c (3)
Since u = tan x, then (3) becomes

tan3 x − tan2 x cos y = c

tan3 x + c = tan2 x cos y
Example 2.
Solve
(3x − 2y + 1)dx + (3x − 2y + 3)dy = 0 (1)
Solution:
Let
u = 3x − 2y
3x = u + 2y
u + 2y
x=
3
1
dx = (du + 2dy)
3
Substituting these values to (1) we have,
 
1
(u + 1) (du + 2dy) + (u + 3)dy = 0
3
(u + 1)(du + 2dy) + 3(u + 3)dy = 0
(u + 1)du + [2(u + 1) + 3(u + 3)]dy = 0
Thus,
(u + 1)du + (5u + 11)dy = 0 (2)
By separation of variables, (2) becomes
 
1 1
(u + 1)du + (5u + 11)dy = 0 ·
5u + 11 5u + 11
u+1
du + dy = 0
Z 5u + 11 Z
u+1
du + dy = c
5u + 11
Z Z Z
1 6 du
du − + dy = c
5 5 5u + 11
1 6
u− ln |5u + 11| + y = c
5 25
5u − 6 ln |5u + 11| + 25y = c (3)
Since u = 3x − 2y, then (3) gives us the result
5(3x − 2y) − 6 ln |5(3x − 2y) + 11| + 25y = c
15x + 15y + c = 6 ln |15x − 10y + 11|
5x + 5y + c = 2 ln |15x − 10y + 11|
5x + 5y + 5c = 2 ln |15x − 10y + 11|
5(x + y + c) = 2 ln |15x − 10y + 11|
Example 3.

sin y(x + sin y)dx + 2x2 cos ydy = 0 (1)

Solution:
Let

u = sin y
du = cos ydy

Then (1) becomes,

u(x + u)dx + 2x2 du = 0 (2)
Let
u = vx du = vdx + xdv
Substituting to (2), we have

vx(x + vx)dx + 2x2 (vdx + xdv) = 0

(3x2 v + v 2 x2 )dx + 2x3 dv = 0

Simplifying,
x2 v(3 + v)dx + 2x3 dv = 0 (3)
Using separation of variables, divide (3) by x3 v(3 + v)

dx 2dv
+ =0
x v(v + 3)
Z Z
dx 2dv
+ =c
x v(v + 3)
2 2
ln |x| + ln |v| − ln |v + 3| = ln |c|
3 3
3 ln |x| + 2 ln |v| − 2 ln |v + 3| = 3 ln |c|
ln (u2 ) + ln |x3 | − ln (u + 3x)2 = ln |c|
u 2 x3
=c
(u + 3x)2

Since u = sin y, then

x3 sin2 y
=c
(3x + sin y)2
x3 sin4 y = c(3x + sin y)2
Example 4.
Solve
dy
= (9x + 4y + 1)2 (1)
dx
Solution:
We can write (1) as
dy = (9x + 4y + 1)2 dx (2)
Let
u = 9x + 4y + 1
du = 9dx + 4dy
1
dx = (du − 4dy)
9
Substituting these to (2), we have
1
dy = u2 (du − 4dy)
9
9dy = u2 (du − 4dy)
(9 + 4u2 )dy = u2 du
Separating the variables, gives
 
1 2 2 1
(9 + 4u )dy = u du ·
4u2 + 9 4u2 + 9
u2 du
dy = 2
4u + 9
u2 du
Z Z
dy =
4u2 + 9
   
1 9 2 −1 2u
y = u− Tan +c
4 16 3 3
We have,  
1 3 2u
y = u − Tan−1 +c (3)
4 8 3
Since u = 9x + 4y + 1, then (3) becomes
 
1 3 −1 2(9x + 4y + 1)
y = (9x + 4y + 1) − Tan +c
4 8 3
 
−1 2(9x + 4y + 1) 18x + 2
Tan = +c
3 3
2
(9x + 4y + 1) = tan (6x + c)
3
2(9x + 4y + 1) = 3 tan (6x + c)
Example 5.
dy
= 1 + 6xex−y (1)
dx

Solution:
Let

u=x−y
du = dx − dy

Substitute to (1), gives

dy
= 1 + 6xeu
dx
dx − du
= 1 + 6xeu
dx
dx − du = (1 + 6xeu )dx
[1 − (1 + 6xeu )]dx = du

We have,
−6xeu dx = du (2)
Diving (2) by eu to separate the variables becomes

du
−6xdx = u
Z Ze
−6xdx = e−u du

−3x2 = −e−u + c

Since u = x − y, then this gives the result as

−3x2 = −e−(x−y) + c
−3x2 = −ey−x + c
3x2 + c = ey−x
Example 6.

Solve
(x + 2y − 1)dx − (x + 2y − 5)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
Let

u = x + 2y
du = dx + 2dy
dx = du − 2dy

Then (1) becomes,

(u − 1)(du − 2dy) − (u − 5)dy = 0

(u − 1)du − 2(u − 1)dy − (u − 5)dy = 0
(u − 1)du − (u − 3)dy = 0

Separating the variables will gives us,

 
1 1
(u − 1)du − (u − 3)dy = 0 ·
u+3 u+3
u−1
du − dy = 0
u+3 Z
u−1
Z
du − dy = c
u+3
Z   Z
4
1− du − dy = c
u+3

We now have,
u − 4 ln |u + 3| − y = C (2)
Since u = x + 2y, then substituting to (2) we have

(x + 2y) − 4 ln |(x + 2y) + 3| − y = c

x + y − ln (x + 2y + 3)4 = c
Example 7.

Solve,
(x + 2y − 1)dx + [2(x + 2y) − 3]dy = 0 (1)
Solution:
Let

u = x + 2y
du = dx + 2dy
dx = du − 2dy

Substitute these to (1)

(u − 1)(du − 2dy) + (2u − 3)dy = 0

(u − 1)du − 2(u − 1)dy + (2u − 3)dy = 0
(u − 1)du − dy =0
Z Z
(u − 1)du − dy =c

We now have,
1 2
(u) − u − y = c (2)
2
Since u = x + 2y, then (2) becomes
1
(x + 2y)2 − (x + 2y) − y = c
2
(x + 2y)2 − 2(x + 2y) − 2y = c
(x + 2y)2 − 2x − 6y = c
(x + 2y − 1)2 = 2y + c
Example 8.

Solve,
y(x tan x + ln |y|)dx + tan xdy = 0 (1)

Solution:
We can rewrite (1) as
dy
(x tan x + ln |y|)dx + tan x =0 (2)
y
Let

u = ln |y|
dy
du =
y

Then (2) becomes,

(x tan x + u)dx + tan xdu = 0 (3)
Let

M (x, u) = x tan x + u
∂M
=1
∂u
and

N (x, u) = tan x
∂N
= sec2 x
∂x
Using the formula,
Mu − Nx 1 − secx
=
N tan x
Mu − Nx − tan2 x
=
N tan x
Mu − Nx
= − tan x
N

Solving for the integrating factor, we have

R
− tan xdx
e = eln | cos x| = cos x
Multiply cos x to (3),

cos x[(x tan x + u)dx + tan xdu] = 0 · cos x

x sin xdx + u cos xdx + sin xdu = 0
x sin xdx + d(u sin x) = 0
Z Z
x sin xdx + d(u sin x) = c

Integrating,
−x cos x + sin x + u sin x = c (4)
Since u = ln |y|, then (4) gives us the result as

−x cos x + sin x + sin x ln |y| = c

sin x ln |y| = x cos x − sin x + c

or
ln |y| = x cot x + c csc x − 1
Example 9.

Solve
4(3x + y − 2)dx − (3x + y)dy = 0 (1)
Solution:
Let

u = 3x + y
y = u − 3x
dy = du − 3dx

Substitute these to (1) gives us

4(u − 2)dx − (u)(du − 3dx) = 0

4(u − 2)dx − 3udx − udu = 0
(7u − 8)dx − udu = 0
 
1 1
(7u − 8)dx − udu = 0 ·
7u − 8 7u − 8
udu
dx − =0
Z Z 7u − 8
udu
dx − =c
7u − 8
1 8
x− u− ln |7u − 8| = c
7 49
We have,
49x − 7u − 8 ln |7u − 8| = c (2)
Since u = 3x + y, then (2) gives us the result

49x − 7(3x + y) − 8 ln |7(3x + y) − 8| = c

28x − 7y − 8 ln |21x + 7y − 8| = c
Bernoulli’s Equation

The differential equation in form

dy
+ P (x)y = Q(x)y n
dx
is called Bernoulli’s Equation. Note that when n = 0, the equation reduces to a linear
differential equation and if n = 1 the equation then becomes separable. Now, if we focus on
the case on which n 6= 1.

The equation
dy
+ P (x)y = Q(x)y n (1)
dx
may be put in the form
dy
y −n
+ P (x)y 1−n = Q(x) (2)
dx
Now considering y 1−n and its derivative
d dy
y 1−n = (1 − n) y −n


dx dx
Now, let
dz dy
z = y 1−n and = (1 − n) y −n
dx dx
Substituting this in (2), we will have
dz
+ (1 − n) P (x)z = (1 − n) Q(x)
dx
which is a linear equation.

The solution is
R
Z R
(1−n)P (x)dx (1−n)P (x)dx
ze = (1 − n) Q(x)e dx + c

In terms of x and y,
R
Z R
1−n (1−n)P (x)dx (1−n)P (x)dx
y e = (1 − n) Q(x)e dx + c

For an easier notation we can let

yr = y 1−n Pr (x) = (1 − n)P (x) Qr (x) = (1 − n)Q(x).
Now, the solution can be in the form
R
Z R
Pr (x)dx Pr (x)dx
yr e = Qr (x)e dx + c
Example 1.

Solve the equation

2x3 y 0 = y(y 2 + 3x2 )
Solution:

2x3 y 0 = y(y 2 + 3x2 )

y(y 2 + 3x2 )
y0 =
2x3
3
y 3x2
y0 = 3 + 3 y
2x 2x
3 1
y0 − y = 3 · y3
2x 2x
Which is a Bernoulli’s equation. We have,
3 1
n=3 P (x) = − Q(x) = .
2x 2x3
The reduced polynomials are,
3 3 1 1
yr = y 1−3 = y −2 Pr (x) = −2 · − = Qr (x) = −2 · 3
=− 3
2x x 2x x
The integrating factor is
3
R
e x
dx
= e3 ln |x| = x3

The general solution is,

Z  
−2 3 1
y x = − 3 x3 dx + c
x
Z
y −2 x3 = −dx + c

y −2 x3 = −x + c
x3 = (c − x)y 2
Alternate Solution
2x3 y 0 = y(y 2 + 3x2 )
y(y 2 + 3x2 )
y0 =
2x3
3
0 y 3x2
y = 3 + 3y
2x 2x
0 3 1 3
y − y = 3 ·y
2x 2x
3 dx
y −3 dy − y −2 dx = 3 (1)
2x 2x
Let
z = −y 2
dz = 2y −3 dy

Substitute to (1), we have

1 2 1
dz + zdx = 3 dx
2 3x 2x
3 dx
dz + zdx = 3
x x
dz 3 1
+ z= 3 (2)
dx x x
Solving for integrating factor,
3
R
dx
e x = e3 ln x = x3
Multiply the integrating factor to (2), which gives
dz
x3 + 3x2 z = 1
dx
x3 dz + 3x2 zdx = dx
d(x3 z) = dx
Z Z
3
d(x z) = dx

x3 z = x + c (3)
1
Since z = − 2 , then (3)
y
 
3 1
x − 2 =x+c
y
x3 = −xy 2 + cy 2
x3 = y 2 (c − x)
Example 2.

Solve the equation

2ydx + x(x2 ln |y| − 1)dy = 0

Solution:

2ydx + x(x2 ln |y| − 1)dy = 0

 
1 2 1
2ydx + x(x ln |y| − 1)dy = 0 ·
2ydy 2ydy
dx 1 ln |y| 3
− x=− x
dy 2y 2y
dx
This is a Bernoulli D.E. in the form + P (y)x = Q(y)xn
dy

1 ln |y|
n=3 P (y) = − Q(y) = −
2y 2y
We have the reduced polynomials,

1 1 ln |y| ln |y|
xr = x1−3 = x−2 Pr (y) = −2 · − = Qr (y) = −2 · − =
2y y 2y y
The integrating factor is
1
R
dy
e y = eln |y| = y
The general solution is,
Z  
−2 ln |y|
x y= ydy + c
y
Z
−2
x y= (ln |y|) dy + c

x−2 y = y ln |y| − y + c
y = x2 y ln |y| − x2 y + cx2
Example 3.

Solve the equation

y 0 = y − xy 3 e−2x

Solution:

y 0 = y − xy 3 e−2x
y 0 − y = −xe−2x y 3

This is a Bernoulli D.E. with

n=3 P (x) = −1 Q(x) = −xe−2x

The reduced polynomials are

yr = y 1−3 = y −2 Pr (x) = 2 Qr (x) = 2xe−2x

The integrating factor is R

2dx
e = e2x
Now, the general solution is
Z
−2 2x
2xe−2x e2x dx + c


y e =
Z
−2 2x
y e = 2x dx + c

y −2 e2x = x2 + c
e2x = y 2 x2 + c


Example 4.

Solve the equation

6y 2 dx − x(2x3 + y)dy = 0

Solution:
 
1 2 3 1
6y dx − x(2x + y)dy = 0 ·
6y 2 dy 6y 2 dy
dx 1 1
− x = 2 x4
dy 6y 3y
dx
This is a Bernoulli D.E. of the form + P (y)x = Q(y)xn with
dy
1 1
n=4 P (y) = − Q(y) =
6y 3y 2
The reduced polynomials are
1 1
xr = x−3 Pr (y) = Qr (y) = −
2y y2
The integrating factor is,
1
R 1 1
dy
e 2y = e 2 ln |y| = y 2
The general solution is
Z  
−3 1 1 1
x y = 2 − 2 y 2 dy + c
y
Z
1 3
x−3 y 2 = −y − 2 dy + c
1 1
x−3 y 2 = 2y − 2 + c
 1

y = x3 2 + cy 2
Example 5.

Solve the equation

xydx + (x2 − 3y)dy = 0
Solution:

xydx + (x2 − 3y)dy = 0

1 1
[xydx + (x2 − 3y)dy] = 0 ·
xydy xydy
dx x 3
+ =
dy y x
dx x
+ = 3x−1
dy y
This is a Bernoulli D.E. with
1
n = −1 P (y) = Q(y) = 3
y
The reduced polynomials are
2
xr = x2 Pr (y) = Qr (y) = 6
y
The integrating factor is
2
R
dy
e y = e2 ln |y| = y 2
The general solution is
Z
2 2
xy = 6y 2 dy + c

x2 y 2 = 2y 3 + c
Example 6.

Solve the equation

(y 4 − 2xy)dx + 3x2 dy = 0
Solution:

(y 4 − 2xy)dx + 3x2 dy = 0
 
1 4 2 1
(y − 2xy)dx + 3x dy = 0 ·
3x2 dx 3x2 dx
dy 2 1
− y = − 2 y4
dx 3x 3x
This is a Bernoulli D.E. with
2 1
n=4 P (x) = − Q(x) = −
3x 3x2
The reduced polynomials are
2 1
yr = y −3 Pr (x) = Qr (x) =
x x2
The integrating factor is
2
R
e x
dx
= e2 ln |x| = x2
The general solution is
Z  
−3 2 1
y x = x2 dx + c
x2
Z
−3 2
y x = dx + c

y −3 x2 = x + c
x2 = y 3 (x + c)
Example 7.

Solve the equation

2xyy 0 = y 2 − 2x3
when x = 1 and y = 2.

Solution:

2xyy 0 = y 2 − 2x3
   
1 0 2 3 1
2xyy = y − 2x
2xy 2xy
y 1
y0 = − x2
2x y
dy y
− = −x2 y −1
dx 2x
This is a Bernoulli D.E. with
1
n = −1 P (x) = − Q(x) = −x2
2x
The reduced polynomials are
1
yr = y 2 Pr (x) = − Qr (x) = −2x2
x
The integrating factor is
R
− x1 dx 1
e = e− ln |x| =
x
The general solution is

y2
Z  
2

1
= −2x dx + c
x x
y2
Z
= −2x dx + c
x
y2
= −x2 + c
x
y2 = (c − x2 )x
Alternate Solution

2xyy 0 = y 2 − 2x3
   
1 0 2 3 1
2xyy = y − 2x
2xy 2xy
y 1
y0 = − x2
2x y
dy y 1
− = − x2
dx 2x y
   
dy y 1 2
y − = − x y
dx 2x y
We have,
dy 1
y − = −x2 (1)
dx 2x
Let

z = −y 2
dz = −2ydy

Substituting to (1) becomes

1 dz z
− + = −x2
2 dx 2x
Then, we have
dz z
− = 2x2 (2)
dx x
Solving for integrating factor we have
dx
R
e− x = e− ln |x| = x−1

Substituting to (2) becomes

dz
x−1 − zx−2 = 2x
dx
x−1 dz − x−2 zdx = 2xdx
d(zx−1 ) = 2xdx
Z Z
−1
d(zx ) = 2xdx

zx−1 = x2 + c
y2
− = x2 + c
x
y 2 = x(c − x2 )
Example 8.

Solve the equation

(2y 3 − x3 )dx + 3xy 2 dy = 0
Solution:

(2y 3 − x3 )dx + 3xy 2 dy = 0

 
1 3 3 2 1
(2y − x )dx + 3xy d y = 0 ·
3xy 2 dx 3xy 2 dx
dy 2y x2
+ = 2
dx 3x 3y
dy 2y x2 −2
+ = y
dx 3x 3
This ia a Bernoulli D.E. with
2 x2
n = −2 P (x) = Q(x) =
3x 3
The reduced polynomials are
2
yr = y 3 Pr (x) = Qr (x) = x2
x
Now, the integrating factor is
2
R
e x
dx
= e2 ln |x| = x2
The general solution is
Z
3 2
y x = (x2 )x2 dx + c
Z
3 2
y x = x4 dx + c
1
y 3 x2 = x5 + c
5
5y 3 x2 = x5 + c
Alternate Slution
(2y 3 − x3 )dx + 3xy 2 dy = 0
 
1 3 3 2 1
(2y − x )dx + 3xy d y = 0 ·
3xy 2 dx 3xy 2 dx
dy 2y x2
+ = 2
dx 3x 3y
   2
1 dy 2y x 1
+ =
y −2 dx 3x 3y 2 y −2

Now,
dy 2y x2
y2 + = (1)
dx 3x 3
Let
z = y3
dz = 3y 2 dy
Substitute to (1) becomes
1 dy 2 x2
+ z=
3 dx 3x 3
dy 2
+ z = x2 (2)
dx x
Solving the integrating factor we have,
2dx
R
e x = e2 ln x = x2
Substituting the integrating factor to (2) becomes
dz
x2 + 2xz = x4
dx
x2 dz + 2xzdx = x4 dx
d(x2 z) = x4 dx
Z Z
d(x z) = x4 dx
2

x5
x2 z = +c
5
x5
x2 y 3 = +c
5
5x2 y 3 = x5 + C
Example 9.

Solve the equation

(x2 + 6y 2 )dx − 4xydy = 0
Solution:

(x2 + 6y 2 )dx − 4xydy = 0

 
1 2 2 1
(x + 6y )dx − 4xydy = 0 ·
−4xydx −4xydx
dy x 3y
− − =0
dx 4y 2x
dy 3y x
− = y −1
dx 2x 4
This is a Bernoulli D.E. with
3 x
n = −1 P (x) = − Q(x) =
2x 4
The reduced polynomials are
3 x
xr = x2 Pr (x) = − Qr (x) =
x 2
The integrating factor is
R
− x3 dx 1
e = e−3 ln |x| =
x3
The general solution is,

y2
Z   
x 1
= dx + c
x3 2 x3
y2
Z
1
= dx
x3 2x2
y2 1
=− +c
x3 2x
2y 2 = cx3 − x2
Alternate Solution
(x2 + 6y 2 )dx − 4xydy = 0
 
1 2 2 1
(x + 6y )dx − 4xydy = 0 ·
−4xydx −4xydx
dy x 3y
− − =0
dx 4y 2x
   
dy 3y x
y − = y
dx 2x 4y

We have,
dy 3 x
y − y2 = (1)
dx 2x 4
Let
z = −y 2
dz = −2ydy
Substituting to (1) becomes
1 dz 3 x
− + z=
2 dx 2x 4
Now,
dz 3 1
− z=− x (2)
dx x 2
Solving for integrating factor we have
− x3 dx
R
e = e3 ln x = x−3
Substituting the integrating factor to (2), gives us
1
x−3 dz − 3x−4 dx = − x−2 dx
2
1
d(x3 z) = − x−2 dx
Z Z2
1
d(x−3 z) = − x−2 dx
2
1 1
x−3 z = · + c
2 x
y2 1 1
− 3 = · +c
x 2 x
y2 1
− 3 = +c
x 2x
2y 2 = −x2 + cx3
Equations with Coefficients Linear in the Two Variables

The differential equation

(a1 x + b1 y + c1 )dx + (a2 x + b2 y + c2 )dy = 0 (1)

in which a1 , b1 , c1 , a2 , b2 and c2 are constants. When c1 = c2 = 0, equation (1) is

homogeneous of degree one.
In connection with (1) we consider the lines

a1 x + b1 y + c1 = 0 a2 x + b 2 y + c 2 = 0 (2)

These lines may be parallel or they may intersect. There will not be two lines if a1 = b1 = 0
or a2 = b2 = 0, but equation (1) will then be linear in one of its variables.

Case 1: Intersecting Lines

If the lines in (2) intersect, i.e.

a1 a2
6=
b1 b2
and let the point of intersection be (h, k). Then the translation

x=u+h y =v+k (3)

will change the equations (2) into equation of line through the origin of the uv -coordinate
system, namely,
a1 u + b 1 v + c 1 = 0 a2 u + b 2 v = 0 (4)
Therefore, since dx = du and dy = dv, the change of variables

x=u+h y =v+k

where (h, k) is the point of intersection of the lines in (2), will transform (1) into

(a1 u + b1 v)du + (a2 u + b2 v)dv = 0 (5)

which is an equation we already know how to solve.

Case 2: Parallel Lines

If the lines in (2) do not intersect, i.e.

a1 a2
=
b1 b2
there exist a constant k such that

a2 x + b2 y = k(a1 x + b2 y)

so that equation (1) appears in the form

(a1 x + b1 y + c1 )dx + [k(a1 x + b1 y) + c2 ]dy = 0

The recurrence of the expression a1 x + b1 y suggests the introduction of a new variable

u = a1 x + b1 y. Then the new equation, in x and u or in y and u, is one with separable
variables.
Example 1.

Solve the equation

(y − 2)dx − (x − y − 1)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
The lines
y−2=0 and x−y−1=0
intersect at (3, 2). Let

x=u+3
dx = du

and

y =v+2
dy = dv

Then (1) becomes

vdu − (u − v)dv = 0 (2)
This is an equation with homogeneous coefficient, let

v = ru
dv = rdu + udr

substitute v and dv to transform (2) into

rudu − (u − ru)(rdu + udr) = 0

r2 udu − u2 (1 − r)dr = 0
 
1 2 2 1
2 2
r udu − u (1 − r)dr = 0 · 2 2
r u r u
du 1 − r
− 2 dr = 0
u r
du dr
− r−2 dr + =0
Z Zu Z r
du dr
− r−2 dr + =c
u r
1
ln |u| − + ln |r| = ln |c|
r
 v
Since r = , then
u
1
ln |u| − + ln |r| = ln |c|
r  
1 v
ln |u| − + ln   = ln |c|
r u
1
ln |u| − + ln |v| − ln |u| = ln |c|
r
1
− + ln |v| = ln |c|
r
u
− = ln |c| − ln |v|
v
Since u = x − 3 and v = y − 2, then
u
− = ln |c| − ln |v|
v
x−3
− = ln |c| − ln |y + 2|
y+2
x − 3 = (2 − y) ln |c(y − 2)|

Alternate Solution
Equation (2) can be written as
vdu − (u − v)dv = 0
du u
− = −1
dv v
This is linear in u, with
1
P (v) = − Q(v) = −1.
v
The integrating factor is
R
− v1 dv −1 1
e = e− ln v = ev = .
v
The general solution is
Z  
u 1
= −1 dv + c
v v
u
= − ln |v| − ln |c|
v
u = −v ln |cv|
Since u = x − 3 and v = y − 2, then
x − 3 = (2 − y) ln |c(y − 2)|
Example 2.
Solve the equation
(x − 4y − 9)dx + (4x + y − 2)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
The lines
x − 4y − 9 = 0 and 4x + y − 2 = 0
intersect at (1, −2). Let
x=u+1 dx = du
and
y =v−2 dy = dv
Then (1) becomes
(u − 4v)du + (4u + v)dv = 0 (2)
Let
v = ru
dv = rdu + udr
substitute v and dv to transform (2) into
(u − 4ru)du + (4u + ru)(rdu + udr) = 0
u(1 + r2 )du + u2 (4 + r)dr = 0
du r+4
+ 2 dr = 0
Z u Z r +1
du r+4
+ dr = c
u r2 + 1
1
ln |u| + ln |r2 + 1| + 4 Tan−1 r = c
2
ln |u2 (r2 + 1)| + 8 Tan−1 r = c

v
Since r = , then
u
 2 v 2 + u2 
   
−1 v
ln u

2
 + 8 Tan =c
u  u
and since u = x − 1, v = y + 2 then
  2
 2 v + u2 

ln u  + 8 Tan−1 v = 0
u2  u
 
x−1
ln |(y + 2)2 + (x − 1)2 | + 8 Tan−1 =0
y+2
Example 3.

Solve the equation

(2x − y)dx + (4x + y − 6)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
The lines
2x − y = 0 and 4x + y − 6 = 0
lines intersect at (1, 2). Let

x=u+1 dx = du

and
y =v+2 dy = dv
Then (1) becomes
(2u − v)du + (4u + v)dv = 0 (2)
Let

v = ru
dv = rdu + udr

substitute v and dv to transform (2) into

(2u − ru)du + (4u + ru)(rdu + udr) = 0

(2u − ru + 4ru + r2 u)du + (4u2 + ru2 )dr = 0
u(r2 + 3r + 2)du + u2 (r + 4)dr = 0
du r+4
+ 2 dr = 0
Z Zu r + 3r + 2
du r+4
+ dr = c
u (r + 2)(r + 1)
ln |u| − 2 ln |r + 2| + 3 ln |r + 1| = ln |c|
 u(r + 1)3 
 
ln   = ln |c|
(r + 2)2 
u(r + 1)3
=c
(r + 2)2
 v
Since r = , then
u
u(r + 1)3
=c
(r + 2)2
 3
v
u +1
u
 2 =c
v
+2
u
 3
v+u
u
u
 2 =c
v + 2u
u
(v + u)3
=c
(v + 2u)2

and since u = x − 1, v = y − 2 then

(v + u)3
=c
(v + 2u)2
 3
(y − 2) + (x − 1)
 2 =c
(y − 2) + 2(x − 1)
(x + y − 3)3
=c
(2x + y − 4)2
(x + y − 3)3 = c(2x + y − 4)2
Example 4.

Solve the equation

(x − 4y − 3)dx − (x − 6y − 5)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
The lines
x − 4y − 3 = 0 and x − 6y − 5 = 0
intersect at (−1, −1). Let
x=u−1 dx = du
and
y =v−1 dy = dv
Then (1) becomes
(u − 4v)du − (u − 6v)dv = 0 (2)
Let

v = ru
dv = rdu + udr

substitute v and dv to transform (2) into

(u − 4ru)du − (u − 6ru)(rdu + udr) = 0

(u − 4ru − ru + 6r2 u)du − (u2 − 6ru2 )dr = 0
u(1 − 5r + 6r2 )du − u2 (1 − 6r)dr = 0
du 1 − 6r
− 2 dr = 0
u Z 6r − 5r + 1
1 − 6r
Z
du
− dr = c
u 6r2 − 5r + 1
1 1
ln |u| + 2 ln |r − | − ln |r − | = ln |C|
2  3
 u(r − 21 )2 
ln   = ln |c|
r−1 3
u(r − 12 )2
=c
r − 31
 v
Since r = , then
u
 2
v 1
u −
u 2
=c
v 1
−
u 3
 2
2v − u
u
2u
=c
3v − u
3u
2
(2v − u) 3u
· =c
4u 3v − u
3(2v − u)2 = 4c(3v − u)

and since u = x + 1, v = y + 1 then

 2  
3 2(y + 1) − (x + 1) = 4c 3(y + 1) − (x + 1)
3(−x + 2y + 1)2 = 4c(−x + 3y + 2)
Example 5.
Solve the equation
(2x + 3y − 5)dx + (3x − y − 2)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
The lines
2x + 3y − 5 = 0 and 3x − y − 2 = 0
intersect at (1, 1). Let
x=u+1 dx = du
and
y =v+1 dy = dv
Then (1) becomes
(2u + 3v)du + (3u − v)dv = 0 (2)
Let
v = ru
dv = rdu + udr
substitute v and dv to transform (2) into
(2u + 3ru)du + (3u − ru)(rdu + udr) = 0
(2 + 6r − r2 )udu + u2 (3 − r)dr = 0
du 3−r
+ dr = 0
u Z 2 + 6r − r2
r−3
Z
du
+ dr = c
u 2 + 6r − r2
1
ln |u| + ln |2 + 6r − r2 | = ln |c|
2
ln |u2 (2 + 6r − r2 )| = ln |c|
u2 (2 + 6r − r2 ) = c
v
Since r = , then
u
   2 

2 v v
u 2+6 − =c
u u
2u2 + 6uv − v 2 = c
and since u = x − 1, v = y − 1 then
2(x − 1)2 + 6(x − 1)(y − 1) − (y − 1)2 = c
2x2 − y 2 + 6xy − 10x − 4y = c
Example 6.

Solve the equation  

(x + y − 1)dx + 2(x + y) + 1 dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
Let

u=x+y
du = dx + dy

Then (1) becomes

(u − 1)dx + (2u + 1)(du − dx) = 0

(u − 1)dx − (2u + 1)dx + (2u + 1)du = 0
(−u − 2)dx + (2u + 1)du = 0
 
1 1
− (−u − 2)dx + (2u + 1)du = 0 · −
(u + 2) u+2
2u + 1
dx − du = 0
Z Z u+2
2u + 1
dx − du = c
u+2
x − 2u + 3 ln |u + 2| = c

Since u = x + y, then

x − 2u + 3 ln |u + 2| = c
x − 2(x + y) + 3 ln |(x + y) + 2| = c
x + 2y + c = 3 ln |x + y + 2|
Example 7.
Solve the equation
(x − 2)dx + 4(x + y − 1)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
The lines
x−2=0 and 4(x + y − 1) = 0
intersect at (2, −1). Let
x=u+2 dx = du
and
y =v−1 dy = dv
Then (1) becomes
udu + 4(u + v)dv = 0 (2)
Let
u = rv
du = rdv + vdr
substitute v and dv to transform (2) into
rv(rdv + vdr) + 4(rv + v)dv =0
v(r2 + 4r + 4)dv + rv 2 dr =0
dv rdr
+ =0
v (r + 2)2
Z Z
dv rdr
+ =c
v (r + 2)2
2
ln |v| + ln |r + 2| + = − ln |c|
r+2
2  
= − ln cv(r + 2)
r+2
u
Since r = , then
v
   
2  u
u = − ln cv
 + 2 
+2 v
v
2v  
= − ln c(u + 2v)
u + 2v
and since u = x − 2, v = y + 1 then
2(y + 1)
= − ln |c[(x − 2) + 2(y + 1)]|
(x − 2) + 2(y + 1)
2(y + 1) = −(x + 2y) ln |c(x + 2y)|
Example 8.
Solve the equation
(x − 1)dx − (3x − 2y − 5)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
The lines
x−1=0 and 3x − 2y − 5 = 0
intersect at (1, −1). Let
x=u+1 dx = du
and
y =v−1 dy = dv
Then (1) becomes
udu − (3u − 2v)dv = 0 (2)
Let
u = rv du = rdv + vdr
substitute v and dv to transform (2) into
rv(rdv + vdr) − (3rv − 2v)dv = 0
rv 2 dr + (r2 v − 3rv + 2v)dv = 0
rdr dv
2
+ =0
Z r − 3r + 2 Z v
rdr dv
2
+ =c
r − 3r + 2 v
2 ln |r − 2| − ln |r − 1| + ln |v| = ln |c|
 v(r − 2)2 
 
ln   = ln |c|
r−1 
v(r − 2)2
=c
r−1
v(r − 2)2 = c(r − 1)
u
Since r = , then
v
u 2 u 
v −2 =c −1
v v
2
(u − 2v) = c(u − v)
and since u = x − 1, v = y + 1 then
 2
(x − 1) − 2(y + 1) = c [(x − 1) − (y + 1)]
(x − 2y − 3)2 = c(x − y − 2)
Example 9.
Solve the equation
(2x − 3y + 4)dx + 3(x − 1)dy = 0 (1)

Solution:
The lines 2x − 3y + 4 = 0 and 3(x − 1) = 0 intersect at (1, 2). Let

x=u+1 dx = du

and
y =v+2 dy = dv
Then (1) becomes
(2u − 3v)du + 3udv = 0 (2)
Let
v = ru du = rdv + vdr
substitute v and dv to transform (2) into

(2u − 3ru)du + 3u(rdv + vdr) = 0

(2u − 3ru + 3ru)du + 3u2 dr = 0
2udu + 3u2 dr = 0
2
du + 3dr = 0
Z u Z
du
2 + 3dr = c
u
2 ln |u| + 3r = c

v
Since r = , then
u
2 ln |u| + 3r = c
 
v
2 ln |u| + 3 =c
u
and since u = x − 1, v = y − 2 then
 
v
2 ln |u| + 3 =c
u
 
y−2
2 ln |x − 1| + 3 =c
x−1
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