# Finding the integrating factor

• Jun 29th 2010, 09:14 AM
callkalpa
Finding the integrating factor
This is about exact first order differential equation,
In a case where the given equating is not a exact one, we find the integrating factor.
To find the integrating factor we wither find a function of x, or y.

My question is in a case where we can't find a function of x and y alone, how can we find the integrating factor?
• Jun 29th 2010, 03:23 PM
wonderboy1953
Quote:

Originally Posted by callkalpa
This is about exact first order differential equation,
In a case where the given equating is not a exact one, we find the integrating factor.
To find the integrating factor we wither find a function of x, or y.

My question is in a case where we can't find a function of x and y alone, how can we find the integrating factor?

Do you have a specific equation in mind?
• Jun 29th 2010, 03:43 PM
pickslides
Use the integrating factor method when $y'+p(x)y=q(x)$ if you don't have that form, you may require another method.

Feel free to post your equation.
• Jun 30th 2010, 01:15 AM
callkalpa
Thanks a lot for your help. I managed to solve it, I could make it to be a function of y.
• Jun 30th 2010, 04:17 AM
Prove It
Quote:

Originally Posted by pickslides
Use the integrating factor method when $y'+p(x)y=q(x)$ if you don't have that form, you may require another method.

Feel free to post your equation.

It works if your coefficient of $y'$ is any nonzero function of $x$ as well, you just have to divide the whole equation by that function before finding the integrating factor.