MATH223

Differential Equations
ENGR. RAYMOND S. ABESAMIS, ME
Lesson 1: Definition, Classification & Elimination of Arbitrary Constant
Introduction
In this lesson, you will be provided with the definition of differential equations
and its classifications. To begin with, you must be familiarized with differential and
integral calculus as these subjects are the pre-requisites of the course.
The words differential and equations certainly suggest solving some kind of
equation that contains derivatives y’, y”, etc. In order to read, study, and be
conversant in this course, students have to master some of the related terminologies.
This is the thrust of the lesson of this course. Practical questions such as “How fast
does a disease spread? How fast does a population change?” involve rates of change
or derivatives. And so the mathematical description of phenomena, experiments,
observations, or theories may be a differential equation.
Also, a differential equation may be classified according to type, order and
linearity which will be part of the discussion in this first lesson.
Intended Learning Outcomes
• Define the fundamental terms from the field of differential equations
• Differentiate the classification of differential equations
• Show how repeated differentiation can eliminate arbitrary constants in a
primitive
Differential Equation
An equation containing the derivatives of one or more unknown functions (or dependent
variables), with respect to one or more independent variables, is said to be a differential equation
(DE).

Order of Differential Equation

The order of a differential equation is the largest derivative present in the differential
equation.

Degree of Differential Equation

The degree of a differential equation is the exponent of the largest derivative (order) present in
the differential equation.
Example: Determination of the order and degree of a differential equation

1. →

2. →

3. →

4. →

5. →
Classification of D.E.

1. Ordinary Differential Equation - equations containing total derivatives or

differentials

2. Partial Differential Equation - equations containing partial derivatives

Linear Differential Equation
Where: y → dependent variable
x → independent variable

Example: Determination whether the DE is linear or non-linear

1. → Linear
2. → Linear
3. → Linear
4. → Non-linear
5. → Non-linear
6. → Non-linear
Solutions of a Differential Equation

1. General Solution - contains arbitrary constant of differential equation

where: and are the arbitrary constants

2. Particular Solution - contains particular values of arbitrary constants

Finding Differential Equation from General Solution by Elimination of Arbitrary
Constant

Properties:
1. The order of differential equation is equal to the number of arbitrary constants in
the given relation.
2. The DE is free from arbitrary constants.

Example: Eliminate the arbitrary constant/s in the following relations.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Supplementary Problems
Recall:
SP1.
where: A and B are arbitrary constants
and are variables
is a parameter (not to be eliminated)

Derive then simplify

→
Derive since we have two (2) arbitrary constants

But:
Thus:
SP2.
where: and are arbitrary constants
and are variables
is a parameter (not to be eliminated)

Derive then simplify

→
Derive since we have two (2) arbitrary constants

But:
Thus: