Differential equations/Integrating factors

Educational level: this is a tertiary (university) resource.
Type classification: this is a lesson resource.
Subject classification: this is a mathematics resource.
Completion status: this resource is ~25% complete.

Definition

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If the expression   is not exact or homogeneous, an integrating factor   can be found so that the equation:

 

is exact.

Solution

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There are 2 approaches to a solution.

  1. If the function is of the form   , then the integrating factor is  .

    OR

    If the function is of the standard form   , then the integrating factor is   or  .
  2. Substitute the integration factor into the equation   and solve.