Unit 7: Differential Equations (copy)

Introduction & Slope Fields

• In related rates we saw how we can model the change in one thing related to another with derivatives, and differential equations are similar!

• Oftentimes, variables are not constant, so we have to represent their change using a derivative (Ex. the change in y is dy/dx)

• A differential equation models the change in one variable with respect to another

• Slope fields show us what the slopes look like at points on a graph

• All you have to do to construct a slope field is plug in your x/y (or both) values into your differential equation and draw that as your slope

• Ex. The slope at x = -1 would be -1 (because dy/dx = x)

• The AP exam might also require you to sketch a solution curve given a slope field!

• All you have to do is “flow” with the slopes

• Make sure you don’t cross abruptly or draw a line that doesn’t follow the slope

• Because this is by hand, it doesn’t have to be exact, just try and go with the tangent lines!

Differential Equations

• If you’re given a differential equation where the derivative of a function is equal to some other function, you have to solve for the original! You can do this by taking the integral (antiderivative) of both sides!

• A good memory trick is that differential equation problems will be SIPPY problems

• S: separate (dy and dx on separate sides)

• I: integrate (remove the derivative)

• P: Plus C (add your c value to your integral)

• P: Plug in your initial condition

• Y: Y equals (solve to find what y is)

• Example: If dy/dx = 4x/y and y(0) = 5 we need to solve for y

• Start by separating → ydy = 4xdx

• Then integrate → ∫ydy = ∫4xdx → y^2/2 = 2x^2 + C

• (Make sure you add C!)

• Plug in → (5)^2/2 = 2(0)^2 + C

• C = 25/2

• Now set y equals → y