EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

MODULE 2: SEPARABLE AND HOMOGENEOUS DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS

INTRODUCTION/RATIONALE
This module provides the EMath 4 students the general method of solving separable differential equations and
the initial value problems. It will equip them the necessary skill to solve particular cases of separable differential
equations in the application part of the course module.

MODULE OUTCOMES
At the end of the module, the learner will be able to:
1. Select the appropriate method of solution of first-order separable DEs & interpret the obtained solution.
2. Select the appropriate method of solution of first-order homogeneous DEs & interpret the obtained solution.

LESSON 1: SEPARABLE DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS

LESSON 1 OUTCOMES
At the end of the module, the learner will be able to:
1. Determine the general solution of a separable differential equations,
2. Determine the particular solution of a separable differential equations, and
3. Sketch the graph of a separable differential equation.

A. INTRODUCTION
From your earlier studies in Integral Calculus you have been introduced to differential Equations. One typical
example you may have encountered is the variable separable. Here is a brief revision of variable separable
differential equations.
A differential equation is said to be separable if the variables can be separated. In 1691, the inverse problem
of tangents led Leibniz to the implicit discovery of the method of separation of variables and later he
communicated it to Christian Huygensi. It was John Bernoulli, in his letter to Leibniz, dated May 9, 1694, which
provided us the explicit process and the term “Separatio Indeterminatarum” or separation of variables. Leibniz
(1691) also knew how to solve the homogeneous differential equation in variables x and y by reducing it to a
separable equation with the substitution y = vx exactly as we have done todayii.

B. GENEARAL METHOD
The first-order ordinary differential equations in differential form is written

𝑀(𝑥, 𝑦)𝑑𝑥 + 𝑁(𝑥, 𝑦)𝑑𝑦 = 0.

Likewise, this can be transformed into standard derivative form,
𝑑𝑦 𝑔(𝑥)
=− . (3)
𝑑𝑥 ℎ(𝑦)
The general method of solving separable equation involves two steps, namely:
STEP 1. Separate the variables, it should be in differential form: 𝑔(𝑥)𝑑𝑥 + ℎ(𝑦)𝑑𝑦 = 0.
STEP 2. Apply direct integration, like this one: ∫ 𝑔(𝑥)𝑑𝑥 + ∫ ℎ (𝑦)𝑑𝑦 = ∫ 0.
Remark: Assuming both have integrals, we can find a general solution in the form 𝐺 (𝑥) + 𝐻 (𝑦) = 𝐶, where
the function H(y) is a primitive of function h(y) and G(x) is a primitive of g(x), and C represents an arbitrary
constant. This procedure to solve the differential equation is called Leibniz’ method of separation of variables.

Cauchy Problem/ Initial-Value Problem

The Cauchy problem or initial-value problem is written with initial values, that is

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

𝑔(𝑥)𝑑𝑥 + ℎ(𝑦)𝑑𝑦 = 0; 𝑦(𝑥0 ) = 𝑦0 .

This can be evaluated by direct integration and apply the initial conditions, then
𝑥 𝑦
∫ 𝑔(𝑥)𝑑𝑥 + ∫ ℎ(𝑦)𝑑𝑦 = 0. (4)
𝑥0 𝑦0

Remark: The above equation, however, may not determine the solution of the initial-value problem uniquely:
that it may have many solutions, of which only one will satisfy the initial-value problemiii. Cauchy problems
differ from boundary value problems in that the domain in which the desired solution must be defined and it
is not specified in advance. Cauchy problems like boundary value problems are defined by the imposition of
limiting conditions for the solution on the boundary of the domain of definition iv.

C. ILLUSTRATIVE PROBLEMS
1. Determine the general solution or the family of curves of the given differential equation dy/dx = 6x.
SOLUTION:
We separate the variables in differential form, then
dy = 6xdx.
Apply direct integration, then
∫ 𝑑𝑦 − 6 ∫ 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 0
y – 3x2 = C.
This is the required general solution in implicit form. ∎

2. Determine the general solution of dy/dx = ky in explicit form.

SOLUTION:
Separate the variables, then
𝑑𝑦
− 𝑘𝑑𝑥 = 0.
𝑦
Apply direct integration, then
𝑑𝑦
∫ − ∫ 𝑘𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 0
𝑦
ln 𝑦 − 𝑘𝑥 = 𝑐
ln 𝑦 = 𝑘𝑥 + 𝑐.
Exponentiate both sides, then
𝑒 ln 𝑦 = 𝑒 𝑘𝑥 + 𝑐
Apply the property of logarithm and exponent (𝑒 ln 𝑢 = 𝑢 and 𝑒 𝑎+𝑏 = 𝑒 𝑎 𝑒 𝑏 ), then
𝑦 = 𝑒 𝑘𝑥+𝑐 = 𝑒 𝑐 · 𝑒 𝑘𝑥 = 𝐶𝑒 𝑘𝑥 .
Therefore, 𝑦 = 𝐶𝑒 𝑘𝑥 is the required general solution in explicit form. ∎

3. Sketch the graph of the general solution of dy/dx = ky for C = 0, 0.13, –0.13, 0.02, –0.02 and k = ln 2.
SOLUTION:
From the previous problem, the solution is 𝑦 = 𝐶𝑒 𝑘𝑥 ; for k = ln 2, then 𝑦 = 𝐶𝑒 ln 2𝑥 = 𝐶𝑒 ln 2𝑥 = 𝐶2𝑥 . A
Cartesian plot of 𝑦 = 𝐶2𝑥 with C = 0, 0.13, –0.13, 0.02, –0.02 are shown below using the Desmos app.

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This is the required graph or solution curve.

4. Find the explicit solution of dy/dx = –0.8(y – 38).

SOLUTION:
Separate the variables, then
𝑑𝑦
+ 0.8 𝑑𝑥 = 0
𝑦 − 38
Apply direct integration, then
𝑑𝑦
∫ + ∫ 0.8𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 0
𝑦 − 38
ln|𝑦 − 38| + 0.8𝑥 = 𝑐.
ln|𝑦 − 38| = −0.8𝑥 + 𝑐.
Exponentiate both sides, then
𝑒 ln|𝑦−38| = 𝑒 −0.8𝑥+𝑐 = 𝑒 −0.8𝑥 𝑒 𝑐 .
Apply the property of logarithm and exponent (𝑒 ln 𝑢 = 𝑢 and 𝑒 𝑎+𝑏 = 𝑒 𝑎 𝑒 𝑏 ), then
𝑦 − 38 = 𝐶𝑒 −0.8𝑥
𝑦 = 38 + 𝐶𝑒 −0.8𝑥 . ∎
The above general solution is written in explicit form as required in the problem.
5. Sketch the solution curve of dy/dx = –0.8(y – 38) for C = 0, 1, 3, and 5.
SOLUTION.
From the previous problem, the required explicit general solution is 𝑦 = 38 + 𝐶𝑒 −0.8𝑥 , below is the solution
curve for C = 0, 1, 3, and 5.

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6. Determine the general solution of (2x + 4) dx – (3y2 + 2) dy = 0.

SOLUTION.
Since this is already in the differential form, we apply direct integration, then
∫(2𝑥 + 4) 𝑑𝑥 − ∫(3𝑦 2 − 2)𝑑𝑦 = ∫ 0

𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 𝑦 3 + 2𝑦 = 𝐶.
This is the required general solution in implicit form because the y-term is cubic.

7. Determine the general solution of 𝑑𝑦/𝑑𝑥 = (𝑦 + 2).

Solution.
Separate the variables, then
𝑑𝑦
− 𝑑𝑥 = 0
𝑦+2
Apply direct integration, then,
𝑑𝑦
∫ − ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 0
𝑦+2
ln|𝑦 + 2| − 𝑥 = 𝑐.
ln|𝑦 + 2| = 𝑥 + 𝑐.
Apply the property of logarithm and exponent (𝑒 ln 𝑢 = 𝑢 and 𝑒 𝑎+𝑏 = 𝑒 𝑎 𝑒 𝑏 ), then
𝑦 + 2 = 𝑒 𝑥+𝑐 = 𝑒 𝑥 𝑒 𝑐 = 𝐶𝑒 𝑥 .
This general solution can be simplified explicitly, which is 𝑦 = 𝐶𝑒 𝑥 − 2.
8. Determine the general solution of dx/dt = (x2 + 4).
SOLUTION.
Separable the variables, then
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑢 1 𝑢
− 𝑑𝑡 = 0 ∫ = 𝐴𝑟𝑐𝑡𝑎𝑛 + 𝐶.
𝑥 2 + 22 𝑢2 + 𝑎 2 𝑎 𝑎
Apply direct integration and simplify the result, then
1
∫( 2 ) 𝑑𝑥 − ∫ 𝑑𝑡 = ∫ 0
𝑥 + 22
1 𝑥
𝐴𝑟𝑐𝑡𝑎𝑛 ( ) − 𝑡 = 𝑐; let 𝐶 = 2𝑐.
2 2
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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

𝑥
𝐴𝑟𝑐𝑡𝑎𝑛 ( ) = 2𝑡 + 2𝑐 = 2𝑡 + 𝐶.
2
Take the tangent of both sides and solve for y, we have
𝑥
= tan(2𝑡 + 𝐶 ).
2
The required general solution in explicit form is 𝑥 = 2tan(2𝑡 + 𝐶 ).

9. Determine the particular solution of the equation 𝑥 cos 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + (1 − 9𝑦 2 ) 𝑑𝑦 = 0; 𝑦(𝜋) = 0.

FIRST SOLUTION:
Since the equation is in its differential form, we apply direct integration, then
∫ 𝑥 cos 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + ∫(1 − 9𝑦 2 ) 𝑑𝑦 = ∫ 0.
The first part involves integration by parts and the second part involves the power formula, then

u x 1 0

dv cos x sin x – cos x

∫ 𝑥 cos 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 sin 𝑥 − (1)(− cos 𝑥 ) + 𝐶1 = 𝑥 sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥 + 𝐶1 .

∫(1 − 9𝑦 2 ) 𝑑𝑦 = 𝑦 − 3𝑦 3 + 𝐶2 .

∫ 0 = 𝐶3 .
Therefore, (𝑥 sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥) + (𝑦 − 3𝑦 3 ) = 𝐶3 − 𝐶1 − 𝐶2 . If we let 𝐶 = 𝐶3 − 𝐶1 − 𝐶2 , the required
general solution is
(𝑥 sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥) + (𝑦 − 3𝑦 3 ) = 𝐶.
Now we apply the constraints: x = π and y = 0, then
(𝜋 ∙ sin 𝜋 + cos 𝜋 + (0 − 3(0)3 )) = 𝐶
(0 − 1 + (0 − 3(0)3 )) = 𝐶
−1 = 𝐶;
then the required particular solution is
𝑥 sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥 + 𝑦 − 3𝑦 3 = −1.
SECOND SOLUTION:
Since the differential equation 𝑥 cos 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + (1 − 9𝑦 2 ) 𝑑𝑦 = 0; 𝑦(𝜋) = 0 is in differential form, we apply
formula (4), then
𝑥 𝑦
∫ 𝑥 cos 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + ∫ (1 − 9𝑦 2 )𝑑𝑦 = 0.
𝜋 0

We already determined the integral above by direct integration,

(𝑥 sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥)]𝜋𝑥 + (𝑦 − 3𝑦 3 )]0𝑦 = 0
(𝑥 sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥) − (𝜋 sin 𝜋 + cos 𝜋) + (𝑦 − 3𝑦 3 ) − (0 − 3(0)3 ) = 0,
(𝑥 sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥) − (−1) + (𝑦 − 3𝑦 3 ) − (0) = 0,

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

(𝑥 sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥) + (𝑦 − 3𝑦 3 ) = −1.

Therefore, we have determined the required particular solution.

Remarks: At this point, we reach an impasse. We would like to solve for y explicitly, but we cannot simplify
further without distorting the simplicity of the form since the y-term is cubic in form. This is often the case in
solving nonlinear first-order equations. Consequently, when we say “solve the equation,” we must on occasion
be content if only an implicit form of the solution has been found.

10. Determine the particular solution of the equation dy = –6xy dx, y(0) = 3.
FIRST SOLUTION:
We separate the variables and apply definite integration formula (4), then
𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑦
∫ 6𝑥𝑑𝑥 + ∫ 𝑑𝑦 = 0
0 3 𝑦
3𝑥 2 − 3(0)2 + ln 𝑦 − ln 3 = 0
𝑦
3𝑥 2 + ln ( 3 ) = 0.
The above particular solution is in its implicit form, this can be manipulated to its explicit form.
𝑦 𝑦 𝑦 2
3𝑥 2 + ln ( ) = 0 ⇒ ln ( ) = −3𝑥 2 ⇒ = 𝑒 −3𝑥 .
3 3 3
2
𝑦 = 3𝑒 −3𝑥 .
This is the required particular solution in explicit form.

SECOND SOLUTION:
We separate the variables,
𝑑𝑦
6𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + =0
𝑦
Apply direct integration,
𝑑𝑦
∫ 6𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + ∫ = ∫0
𝑦
3𝑥 2 + ln 𝑦 = 𝐶.
ln 𝑦 = −3𝑥 2 + 𝐶.
@ x = 0 and y = 3, then
ln 𝑦 = −3𝑥 2 + 𝐶 ⇒ ln 3 = −3(0)2 + 𝐶 ⇒ ln 3 = 𝐶.
We substitute the value of C = ln 3 in the general solution and apply the laws of logarithm and exponent,
ln 𝑦 = −3𝑥 2 + 𝐶
ln 𝑦 = −3𝑥 2 + ln 3
𝑦 𝑦 2
ln 𝑦 − 𝑙𝑛 3 = −3𝑥 2 ⇒ ln ( ) = −3𝑥 2 ⇒ = 𝑒 −3𝑥
3 3
−3𝑥 2
𝑦 = 3𝑒 .
This is the required particular solution.

11. Determine the general solution of the equation (x2 + 4)y′ = 2xy.
SOLUTION:
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦 𝑥𝑑𝑥
(𝑥 2 + 4) = 2𝑥𝑦 ⇒ = 2 .
𝑑𝑥 𝑦 (𝑥 + 4)

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Separate the variables, then

𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦
− = 0.
(𝑥 2 + 4) 𝑦
Apply direct integration, then
𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦
∫ −∫ = ∫ 0.
(𝑥 2 + 4) 𝑦
1
ln(𝑥 2 + 4) − ln 𝑦 = 𝐶
2
Thus, we determined the required general solution in implicit form. This can be simplified to its explicit
form, namely: y = 𝐶√𝑥 2 + 4.

12. Black holes emit a small amount of radiation, causing them to slowly evaporate over time. According to
Hawking, the mass M of a black hole obeys the differential equation
𝑑𝑀 𝑘
= − 2,
𝑑𝑡 𝑀
where k = 1.26 × 1023 kg3/year. a) Find the general solution to this equation (b) After a supernova, the remnant
of a star collapses into a black hole with an initial mass of 6.00 × 10 31 kg, how long will it take for this black
hole to evaporate completely?
SOLUTION:
Separate the variables, then
𝑑𝑀 𝑘
=− 2
𝑑𝑡 𝑀
𝑀2 𝑑𝑀 = −𝑘𝑑𝑡
Apply direct integration and simplify the result, then

∫ 𝑀2 𝑑𝑀 = ∫ 𝑘𝑑𝑡

𝑀3
= −𝑘𝑡 + 𝑐 ⇒ 𝑀3 = −3𝑘𝑡 + 3𝑐 = −3(1.26 × 1023 )𝑡 + 3𝑐.
3
𝑀3 = −3.78 × 1023 𝑡 + 𝐶.
We apply the limits to find the constant C, then
a) @ t = 0 and M = 6.00 × 1031, then
(6.00 × 1031 )3 = −(3.78 × 1023 ) (0) + 𝐶
𝐶 = (6.00 × 1031 )3 + (3.78 × 1023 ).
b) @ the time when the supernova totally evaporated, where M = 0, then
𝑀3 = −3.78 × 1023 𝑡 + (6.00 × 1031 )3 + (3.78 × 1023 )
(0)3 = −3.78 × 1023 𝑡 + (6.00 × 1031 )3 + (3.78 × 1023
(6.00 × 1031 )3 − (3.78 × 1023
𝑡=
3.78 × 1023
𝑡 = 5.71429 × 1071 years.

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

Therefore, we determines the optimal life of the supernova as required in the problem.
Remark: Amazing, the numerical value nears the total number of atoms in the observable universe estimated to
be “between 1078 to 1082 atoms”v.

13. Determine the general solution of the equation dy/dx = y2 – y3.

FIRST SOLUTION:
This is separable, we transform the standard form to its differential form, then
𝑑𝑦
= 𝑑𝑥
𝑦2 − 𝑦3
Apply direct integration, then
𝑑𝑦
∫ 2 = ∫ 𝑑𝑥.
𝑦 − 𝑦3
Decompose the partial fractionvi, we have
1 −1 𝐴 𝐵 𝐶 𝐴𝑦(𝑦 − 1) + 𝐵(𝑦 − 1) + 𝐶𝑦 2
= = + + = .
𝑦2 − 𝑦3 𝑦3 − 𝑦2 𝑦 𝑦2 𝑦 − 1 𝑦 2 (𝑦 − 1)
−1 𝐴𝑦(𝑦 − 1) + 𝐵(𝑦 − 1) + 𝐶𝑦 2
=
𝑦 2 (𝑦 − 1) 𝑦 2 (𝑦 − 1)
Equate the numerators,
−1 = 𝐴𝑦(𝑦 − 1) + 𝐵 (𝑦 − 1) + 𝐶𝑦 2 .
Apply Heaviside cover up method:
@ y = 1, then
−1 − 𝐴𝑦(𝑦 − 1) − 𝐵(𝑦 − 1) −1 − 0 − 0 1
𝐶= 2
= 2
= = −1.
𝑦 𝑦 (1)2
@ y = 0, then
−1 − 𝐵𝑦(𝑦 − 1) − 𝐶𝑦 2 1 − 0 − 0 −1
𝐴= = = = 1.
𝑦−1 𝑦−1 0−1
@ y = 2, then
−1 − 𝐴𝑦(𝑦 − 1) − 𝐶𝑦 2 −1 − (1)(2)(2 − 1) − (−1)(2)2 −1 − 2 + 4
𝐵= = = = 1.
𝑦−1 2−1 1
After the decomposition of the partial fraction, integrate both sides of the equation
1 1 1
∫( + 2 − ) 𝑑𝑦 = ∫ 𝑑𝑥,
𝑦 𝑦 𝑦−1
1
ln|𝑦| − − ln|𝑦 − 1| = 𝑥 + 𝐶,
𝑦
Apply the product and quotient properties of logarithm, then
𝑦 1
ln | | − = 𝑥 + 𝐶.
𝑦−1 𝑦
The above solution is in its implicit form, but it can be solve explicitly only for x,
𝑦 1
𝑥 = ln | | − − 𝐶.
𝑦−1 𝑦
The above solution is written explicitly for the variable x instead of y.

14. Determine the general solution of the equation dy/dx = 2(1 + sin y).
FIRST SOLUTION:

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Separate the variables, then

𝑑𝑦
− 2𝑑𝑥 = 0.
1 + sin 𝑦
Apply direct integration, then
𝑑𝑦
∫ − 2 ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 0.
1 + sin 𝑦
The left integral can be dealt with the Weierstrass t-substitutionvii, while the right integral is by definition.
We apply the t-substitution:
𝜃
𝑡 = tan
2
𝜃 = 2Arctan 𝑡
2 𝑑𝑡
𝑑𝜃 = .
1 + 𝑡2

Likewise, we need three derived identities,

2𝑡 1 − 𝑡2 2𝑡
sin 𝜃 = 2
, cos 𝜃 = 2
, and tan 𝜃 = .
1+𝑡 1+𝑡 1 − 𝑡2
We utilize the first and the third identity, replacing 𝜃 with y and d𝜃 with dy, then
2 𝑑𝑡
𝑑𝑦 2 2𝑑𝑡 −2 −2
∫ = ∫ 1+𝑡 2𝑡 = ∫ 2
= ∫ 2(1 + 𝑡)−2 𝑑𝑡 = +𝐶 = 𝑦 + 𝐶1 .
1 + sin 𝑦 1+ 1 + 2𝑡 + 𝑡 1+𝑡 1 + tan 2
2 1+𝑡

−2 ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = −2𝑥 + 𝐶2 .

∫ 0 = 𝐶3 .
Therefore,
𝑑𝑦 −2
∫ − 2 ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 0 ⇒ 𝑦 + 𝐶1 − 2𝑥 + 𝐶2 = 𝐶3 .
1 + sin 𝑦 1 + tan 2
Divide both sides with −2 and let 𝐶 = −(𝐶3 − 𝐶1 − 𝐶2 )/2, then
1
𝑦 + 𝑥 = 𝐶.
1 + tan
2
SECOND SOLUTION:
Separate the variables, then
𝑑𝑦
− 2𝑑𝑥 = 0.
1 + sin 𝑦
Apply direct integration, then
𝑑𝑦
∫ − 2 ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 0.
1 + sin 𝑦
Multiply the integrand of the first integral by its conjugate (1 − sin 𝑦), we have

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

1 1 1 − sin 𝑦 (1 − sin 𝑦) 1 sin 𝑦

∫ 𝑑𝑦 = ∫ · 𝑑𝑦 = ∫ 2
𝑑𝑦 = ∫ ( 2 − ) 𝑑𝑦
1 + sin 𝑦 1 + sin 𝑦 1 − sin 𝑦 cos 𝑦 cos 𝑦 cos2 𝑦
∫(sec 2 𝑦 − tan 𝑦 sec 𝑦)𝑑𝑦 = ∫ sec 2 𝑦 𝑑𝑦 − ∫ tan 𝑦 sec 𝑦 𝑑𝑦 = tan 𝑦 − sec 𝑦 + 𝐶4 .
𝑑𝑦
∫ − 2 ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 0 ⇒ tan 𝑦 − sec 𝑦 − 2𝑥 = 𝑘.
1 + sin 𝑦
The two implicit solutions varies in form, but they are essentially the same.

D. FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT PROBLEMS

Determine the general solution of each of the following separable differential equations.
15. x dx + y dy = 4 Answer: x2 + y2 = C
16. dy/dx = 1 + 2y Answer viii: y = Ce2x – 1/2
17. (4/t) dt + (1 + 3/y) dy = 0 Answer: t4y3 = C – y.
18. dx – (1/(y2 – 6y + 25)) dy = 0 Answer ix: x = C + (1/4) Arctan (y – 3)/4
19. dx/dt = 2x/t Answer: ln x = ln t2 + C
20. sin x sin y dx + cos x cos y dy = 0
21. tan θ dr + 2r dθ = 0 Answer: sin2 θ = C/r
22. dP/dt = kP(1 – P/K) Answer: P = K/(1 + Ae–kt)
23. dV/dP = –V/P Answer: PV = C
24. (xy + 2x + y + 2) dx + (x2 + 2x) dy = 0 Answer: y = C/√𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 – 2
25. (x + 4)(y2 + 1) dx + (x2 + 3x + 2) y dy = 0 Answer: ln (y2 + 1) + ln (x + 1)6 = ln (x + 2)4 + C
26. (et + 1) cos u du + et (sin u + 1) dt = 0 Answer: ln[(sin u + 1)(et + 1)] = C
27. (y/x) cos(y/x) dx – ((x/y) sin (y/x) + cos (y/x)) dy = 0 Answer: y Arcsin (y/x) = C
28. y dx + x ln (y/x) dy – 2x dy = 0 Answer: y/(1 + ln (x/y)) = C
Determine the particular solution of each of the following separable differential equations.
29. 𝑒 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 − 𝑦𝑑𝑦 = 0, 𝑦(0) = 1
30. x cos x dx + (1 – 6y5) dy = 0, y(π) = 0
31. dx/dt = 2x/t, y(4) = 4
32. sin x dx + y dy = 0, y(0) = –2 Answer: cos x + 1 = y2/2
33. y' = (x2y – y)/(y + 1), y(3) = –1 Answer: x3/3 – x + y – ln y = 7
34. dx/dt = 4(x2 + 1), x(π/4) = 1
35. xy2 dx + ex dy = 0, when x → ∞, y → 1/2 Answer: y = ex/(2ex – x – 1)

MODULE 2: SEPARABLE AND HOMOGENEOUS DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS

INTRODUCTION/RATIONALE

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

This module provides the general solution to the homogeneous differential equations and the interpretation
thereof.

MODULE OUTCOMES
At the end of the module, the learner will be able to:
1. Select the appropriate method of solution of first-order separable DEs and interpret the obtained solution.
2. Select the appropriate method of solution of first-order homogeneous DEs and interpret the obtained
solution.

LESSON 1: HOMOGENEOUS DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS

LESSON OUTCOMES
At the end of the module, the learner will be able to:
1. Determine the general solution of a homogeneous differential equations,
2. Determine the particular solution of a homogeneous differential equations, and
3. Sketch the graph of a homogeneous differential equation.

A. INTRODUCTION
A first‐order differential equation is said to be homogeneous if M(x, y) and N(x,y) are both homogeneous
functions of the same degree. Leibniz (1691) solved the homogeneous differential equation in variables x and
y by reducing it to a separable equation with the substitution y = vx, exactly as we do todayx.

A first order first-order differential equation is homogeneous when it can be written in this form:
𝑑𝑥 𝑀(𝑥, 𝑦)
=− = 𝐹 (𝑥, 𝑦).
𝑑𝑦 𝑁(𝑥, 𝑦)
A first-order differential equation, that may be easily expressed above is said to be a homogeneous differential
equation if the function on the right-hand side is Euler’s homogeneous in nature, of degree zero. This implies
that for any real number v,
𝑑𝑦
= 𝐹(𝑥, 𝑦) = 𝐹 (𝑣𝑥, 𝑣𝑦) = 𝑣 0 𝐹 (𝑥, 𝑦).
𝑑𝑥
B. GENERAL SOLUTION
The general solution emanates from a transformation that converts a homogeneous differential equation to a
separable differential equation. The steps are as follows:
1. Change the differential form to the standard form, then
𝑑𝑦 𝑦
= 𝑓 ( ) = 𝑓 (𝑣);
𝑑𝑥 𝑥
where v = y/x or 𝑦 = 𝑣𝑥 and apply derivatives, then
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑣
= 𝑣( )+𝑥( )
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑣
𝑓 (𝑣) = 𝑣 + 𝑥 ( )
𝑑𝑥
Separating the variables, then
𝑑𝑣
𝑓 (𝑣) − 𝑣 = 𝑥 ( )
𝑑𝑥

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑣
= ⇒ − = 0.
𝑥 𝑓 (𝑣) − 𝑣 𝑥 𝑓(𝑣) − 𝑣
Apply direct integration, then
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑣
∫ +∫ = 𝐶. (5)
𝑥 𝑣 − 𝑓 (𝑣)
This is the required result in integral form, a separable equation in x and v where y = vx or v = y/x;
returning to the original dependent variable y, the solution takes the form ln|𝑥| + 𝐹 (𝑣) = 𝐶.

2. Change the differential form to the standard form, then

𝑑𝑥 𝑥
= 𝑔 ( ) = 𝑔(𝑣);
𝑑𝑦 𝑦
where v = x/y or 𝑥 = 𝑣𝑦 and apply derivatives, then
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑣
= 𝑣( )+𝑦( )
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦
𝑑𝑣
𝑔(𝑣) = 𝑣 + 𝑦 ( )
𝑑𝑦
0 = (𝑣 − 𝑔(𝑣)) 𝑑𝑦 + 𝑦 𝑑𝑣.
Separate the variables, then
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑣
+ = 0.
𝑦 𝑣 − 𝑔(𝑣)
Apply direct integration, then
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑣
∫ +∫ = 𝐶. (6)
𝑦 𝑣 − 𝑔(𝑣)
This is the required result in integral form, a separable equation in x and v where x = vy or v = x/y;
returning to the original dependent variable y, the solution takes the form ln|𝑦| + 𝐺 (𝑣) = 𝐶.

3. ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES
36. Determine the general solution of the equation (x + y)dx – xdy = 0.
FIRST SOLUTION:
We transform the differential form into the standard derivative form, then
𝑑𝑦 𝑥 + 𝑦
= = 𝐹(𝑥, 𝑦).
𝑑𝑥 𝑥
We will verify if it is an Euler’s homogeneous differential equation,
𝑣𝑥 + 𝑣𝑦 𝑣(𝑥 + 𝑦) 𝑥+𝑦
𝐹 (𝑣𝑥, 𝑣𝑦) = = = 𝑣0 ( ) = 𝐹(𝑥, 𝑦).◾
𝑣𝑥 𝑣 (𝑥) 𝑥
Solve for f(v) or f(y/x), then
𝑥/𝑥 + (𝑦/𝑥) 1 + 𝑣
𝑓(𝑣) = = = 1 + 𝑣.
𝑥/𝑥 1
Substitute 𝑓(𝑣) in (1),
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑥
∫ + ∫ =𝐶 ⟹∫ +∫ =𝐶 ⟹∫ − ∫ 𝑑𝑡 = 𝐶
𝑥 𝑣 − 𝑓(𝑣) 𝑥 𝑣 − (1 + 𝑣) 𝑥
We evaluate the integrals, then

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

𝑑𝑥 𝑦 𝑦
∫ − ∫ 𝑑𝑣 = 𝐶 ⇒ 𝑙𝑛│𝑥│ − 𝑣 = 𝐶 ⟹ 𝑙𝑛│𝑥│ − = 𝐶 ⟹ = 𝑙𝑛│𝑥│ − 𝐶.
𝑥 𝑥 𝑥
We solve for y, then the explicit solution is
𝑦 = 𝑥 ln │𝑥│ − 𝐶𝑥.
SECOND SOLUTION:
We can transform the differential form to its standard form,
𝑑𝑥 𝑥
= = 𝐹(𝑦, 𝑥).
𝑑𝑦 𝑥 + 𝑦
We will verify if it is an Euler’s homogeneous differential equation,
𝑣𝑥 𝑣 (𝑥) 𝑥
𝐹 (𝑣𝑦, 𝑣𝑥) = = = 𝑣0 ( ) = 𝐹(𝑥, 𝑦).◾
(
𝑣𝑥 + 𝑣𝑦 𝑣 𝑥 + 𝑦 ) 𝑥+𝑦
Solve for g(v) or g(x/y), then
𝑥/𝑦 𝑣
𝑔(𝑣) = = .
𝑥/𝑦 + 𝑦/𝑦 𝑣 + 1
Substitute 𝑓(𝑣) in (1),
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑣
∫ + ∫ =𝐶 ⇒ ∫ +∫ = 𝐶,
𝑦 𝑣−𝑔 𝑣 ( ) 𝑦 𝑣 − 𝑣/(1 + 𝑣)
(1 + 𝑣)𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑣
𝑙𝑛│𝑦│ + ∫ 2 = 𝐶 ⇒ 𝑙𝑛│𝑦│ + ∫ 2 + ∫ = 𝐶.
𝑣 +𝑣−𝑣 𝑣 𝑣
1 1 𝑥 𝑦
𝑙𝑛│𝑦│ − + ln 𝑣 = 𝐶 ⇒ 𝑙𝑛│𝑦𝑣│ − = 𝐶 ⇒ 𝑙𝑛│𝑦 │ − = 𝐶..
𝑣 𝑥/𝑦 𝑦 𝑥
𝑦
𝑙𝑛│𝑥│ − = 𝐶.
𝑥
We solve for y, then the explicit solution is
𝑦 = 𝑥 ln │𝑥│ − 𝐶𝑥.

Remark: Observe that the substitution y = vx or x = vy determines the required general solution although the
first substitution is simpler to evaluate than the second substitution. The more simple the function
corresponding to f(v) or g(v), the more easy to integrate.

37. Sketch the solution curve of the previous problem for C = 0, 1, 1.6, and 2.05.
SOLUTION:
From the previous problem, we have determined that the general solution is
𝑦 = 𝑥 ln │𝑥│ − 𝐶𝑥.

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

We plot using the Desmos app for C = 0, 1, 1.6, and 2.05. The online sketch is shown below.

38. Determine the general solution of the equation 2xy dx – (x2 – y2) dy = 0.
SOLUTION:
2xy dx – (x2 – y2) dy = 0 ⇒ dx/dy = (x2 – y2)/2xy.
The above choice is justified because the denominator is of one term while the numerator have two terms.
By inspection, this is homogeneous of degree 2. Transform the differential form to standard form, then make
good use of the substitution x = vy or v = x/y.
𝑑𝑥 (𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 )/𝑦 2 (𝑥/𝑦)2 − 1 𝑣 2 − 1
= 𝑔(𝑥/𝑦) = = = = 𝑔(𝑣).
𝑑𝑦 2𝑥𝑦/𝑦 2 2(𝑥/𝑦) 2𝑣
Substitute g(v) in (2),
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑣
∫ +∫ =𝐶
𝑦 𝑣 − 𝑔(𝑣)
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑡
∫ +∫ 2
=𝐶
𝑦 𝑣 − (𝑣 − 1)/2𝑣
𝑑𝑦 2𝑣 𝑑𝑣
∫ +∫ 2 =𝐶
𝑦 2𝑣 − 𝑣 2 + 1
𝑑𝑦 2𝑣 𝑑𝑣
∫ +∫ 2 =𝐶
𝑦 𝑣 +1
ln|𝑦| + ln|𝑣 2 + 1| = 𝐶
Exponentiate both sides, then
𝑥 2
𝑙𝑛 |𝑦 (( ) + 1)| = 𝐶
𝑦
𝑥 + 𝑦2
2
= 𝑒 𝐶 = 𝑘.
𝑦
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑘𝑦.
39. Sketch the graph of the general solution of the equation 2xy dx – (x2 – y2) dy = 0 for C = ±2, ±4, ±6, and ±8.
SOLUTION:
The required graph of the solution curve is shown below.

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

40. Solve (x + y) dx – x dy = 0, y(–1) = –2.

SOLUTION:
From the first illustrative problem of this The explicit general solution of the above differential is y = x ln x
– Cx.
𝑦 = 𝑥 ln|𝑥| − 𝐶𝑥
We apply now initial values, @ x = –1 and y = –2, then
−2 = (−1) ln|−1| − 𝐶 (−1)
𝐶 = −2.
Therefore, the required particular solution is 𝑦 = 𝑥 𝑙𝑛|𝑥| + 2𝑥.

Formative Assessment
A. Euler’s Homogeneous Differential Equations
41. y' = (y – x)/x Answer: y = x(C – ln x)
42. y' = y/(x +√𝑥𝑦) Answer: ln 𝑦 = 𝐶 + 2√𝑥/𝑦

43. dx/dy = y/(x +√𝑥𝑦)

44. y' = 2(x4 – 3x2y2 + y4)/x3y
45. y' = 2(y2 + x2)/xy
46. y' = 2(x2 – y2)/3xy
47. x dy – y dx + √𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 dy = 0
48. (x3 – y3) dx + xy2 dy = 0
49. (1 – xy + x2y2) y dx + (x3y – x2) y dy = 0
50. tan2(x + y) dx – dy = 0 Answer: sin (x + y) cos (x + y) – (x – y) = C

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 EMATH 4 – MODULE 2

51. x2(x dx + y dy) + y(x dy – y dx) = 0, use the substitution x2 + y2 = z2 Answer: (x2 + y2)(x + 1)2 = Cx2
52. y' = (y2 + x2)/2xy; y(1) = –2. Answer: y2 = x2 + 3x

i
Bernoulli, John, Acta Erunditorum, 1694, Ostwald's Klassiker, No. 46. Engelmann, Leipzig, 1894
ii
O'Neil, P. V. (1995) Advanced Engineering Mathematics, p. 1085
iii
This technique was contributed by Engr. Nigel Silva 7/20/2019.
iv
http://www.encyclopediaofmath.org/index.php?title=Cauchy_problem&oldid=28161
v
https://www.universetoday.com/36302/atoms-in-the-universe/
vi
https://www.emathhelp.net/calculators/algebra-2/partial-fraction-decomposition-calculator/
vii
http://jekyll.math.byuh.edu/courses/m113/handouts/weierstrass.pdf
viii
Contributed by James B. Billones 8/2/2020
ix
Contributed by James B. Billones 8/2/2020
x
O'Neil, P. V. (1995) Advanced Engineering Mathematics, p. 1085

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