Introduction

• In this chapter you will learn how to solve

differential equations

• There are various techniques including use

of an integrating factor

• Models like these allow the more detailed

study of areas such as population growth,
and optimisation of medical treatments!
 First order differential equations
You need to be able to solve differential 𝑑𝑦
equations by separation of variables, and = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)
sketch families of solution curves 𝑑𝑥
Divide by g(y) and
multiply by dx
In C4 you have solved equations using the 1
‘separation of variables’ technique 𝑑𝑦 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝑔(𝑦)
Integrate both
Remember what this looks like? 1 sides
න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑔(𝑦)

Once integrated, you will be left with an equation

that you can rearrange to put in different forms

 Remember that the ‘+C’ part could be anything at

this stage. The possible functions are known as a
‘family of solution curves’

 You can also find ‘particular’ solutions if you are

told information linking x and y

4A
 𝑑𝑦 1
= 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑦
You need to be able to solve differential =2
equations by separation of variables, and 𝑑𝑥 Integrate with
sketch families of solution curves respect to x
𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 𝐶
Find the general solution of the y
differential equation:
2
𝑑𝑦
=2
𝑑𝑥
1
Then sketch members of the family of
solution curves represented by the general
solution.
x

This is the family of solution

curves for C = -2, -1, 0, 1 and 2
-1

 Basically a set of possible

graphs we could get for certain
-2
values of C, the constant

4A
 𝑑𝑦 1
= 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)

First order differential equations

You need to be able to solve differential 𝑑𝑦 𝑥
=−
equations by separation of variables, and 𝑑𝑥 𝑦 Multiply by y and
sketch families of solution curves multiply by dx
𝑦 𝑑𝑦 = −𝑥 𝑑𝑥
Find the general solution of the Integrate both
differential equation: sides
𝑑𝑦 𝑥 න 𝑦 𝑑𝑦 = න −𝑥 𝑑𝑥
=−
𝑑𝑥 𝑦 Calculate
1 2 1
Then sketch members of the family of 𝑦 = − 𝑥2 + 𝐶
solution curves represented by the general 2 2
solution. Add 1/2x
1 2 1 2
𝑦 + 𝑥 =𝐶
 In this case you will need to separate 2 2
Multiply by 2
the variables x and y before you can
Integrate 𝑦 2 + 𝑥 2 = 2𝐶
Hopefully you recognise this
as the equation of a circle!
 As 2C is just a number, we can think of 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 2𝐶
it as being the ‘r2’ part of the circle
equation  r2 = 2C

4A
 𝑑𝑦 1
= 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)

First order differential equations

You need to be able to solve differential 𝑑𝑦 𝑥
=−
equations by separation of variables, and 𝑑𝑥 𝑦 The original
sketch families of solution curves equation…
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 2𝐶
Find the general solution of the y
differential equation:
6
𝑑𝑦 𝑥
=−
𝑑𝑥 𝑦
3
Then sketch members of the family of
2
solution curves represented by the general
solution. 1

x
 Now we have the equation we can
sketch some examples from this
‘family’

These curves correspond

to C = 0.5, 2, 4.5 and 18
respectively (as the
equation has 2C in it!)

4A
 𝑑𝑦 1
= 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑦 𝑦
You need to be able to solve differential 𝑑𝑥
=−
𝑥
equations by separation of variables, and Divide by y,
sketch families of solution curves multiply by dx
1 1
𝑑𝑦 = − 𝑑𝑥
𝑦 𝑥
Find the general solution of the Integrate
each side
differential equation: 1 1
න 𝑑𝑦 = න − 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦 𝑦 𝑦 𝑥 Calculate the
=− integrals
𝑑𝑥 𝑥
𝑙𝑛𝑦 = −𝑙𝑛𝑥 + 𝐶
Then sketch members of the family of Add lnx
solution curves represented by the general 𝑙𝑛𝑦 + 𝑙𝑛𝑥 = 𝐶
solution. Use the multiplication law
𝑙𝑛𝑥𝑦 = 𝐶 Take exponentials of each side
This step is common – ie) the replacing of a constant (cancels the ‘ln’ – we will explain the
involving several letters with a single, different 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑒 𝐶 modulus in a moment!)
letter Divide by x (remember the modulus
gives a positive or negative
𝑒𝐶 possibility)
 Make sure it is clear when you do this! 𝑦=±
𝑥
Replace eC with ‘A’ as eC
 Remember you cannot replace a ‘variable’ term 𝐴 is just a constant
such as ‘x’ in this way! 𝑦=±
𝑥
4A
 𝑑𝑦 1
= 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)

First order differential equations

𝑙𝑛𝑥𝑦 = 𝐶
You need to be able to solve differential Take exponentials of each side
𝐶
equations by separation of variables, and 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑒
sketch families of solution curves
Why did we have to include a modulus here?
This is the equation we ended 𝐴
Find the general solution of the up with when using the modulus 𝑦 = ±
𝑥
differential equation:
𝑑𝑦 𝑦 If positive If negative
=− 𝐴 𝐴
𝑑𝑥 𝑥 𝑦= 𝑦=−
𝑥 𝑥
Rewrite Rewrite
Then sketch members of the family of −1 −1
𝑦 = 𝐴𝑥 𝑦 = −𝐴𝑥
solution curves represented by the general
Differentiate Differentiate
solution. 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦
= −𝐴𝑥 −2 = 𝐴𝑥 −2
𝑑𝑥 If y = A/x, 𝑑𝑥 If y = -A/x,
 Both possibilities differentiate to give A = xy A = -xy
us the original function, so therefore we 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦
= −(𝑥𝑦)𝑥 −2 = (−𝑥𝑦)𝑥 −2
need to include the modulus or we would 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
Group x’s Group x’s
lose an answer! 𝑑𝑦 −1
𝑑𝑦
= −𝑦𝑥 = −𝑦𝑥 −1
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
Rewrite Rewrite
𝑑𝑦 𝑦 𝑑𝑦 𝑦
=− =−
𝑑𝑥 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑥

4A
 𝑑𝑦 1
= 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)

First order differential equations

You need to be able to solve differential 𝐴 Increasing or decreasing the
equations by separation of variables, and
𝑦=± value of A (eC) will move the
𝑥 curves in or out!
sketch families of solution curves
y
Find the general solution of the
differential equation:
𝑑𝑦 𝑦
=−
𝑑𝑥 𝑥
Then sketch members of the family of
solution curves represented by the general
solution. x

4A
 𝑑𝑦 1
= 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑥
= 𝑥
𝑑𝑡 Divide by √x,
You need to be able to solve differential
equations by separation of variables, and 1 multiply by dt
𝑑𝑥 = 1 𝑑𝑡
sketch families of solution curves 𝑥
Rewrite as powers (if
1 needed)
Find the general solution of the 𝑥 −2 𝑑𝑥 = 1 𝑑𝑡
Take Integrals
differential equation: of each side
1
𝑑𝑥 න 𝑥 −2 𝑑𝑥 = න 1 𝑑𝑡
= 𝑥 𝑡≥0
𝑑𝑡 1 Calculate
𝑥2
And then find the particular solution if =𝑡+𝐶
1ൗ
2 Rewrite
x = 9 when t = 0. left side
2 𝑥 =𝑡+𝐶
 As always, start by separating the Divide by 2
variables and integrating 𝑥=
𝑡+𝐶
2 Sub in x = 9
when t = 0
 The difference in this question is that 0+𝐶
9=
you will be able to find the value of the 2 Remember √9 means
constant, C 𝐶 ‘positive square root’
3=
2
Calculate
6=𝐶
4A
 𝑑𝑦 1
= 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) න 𝑑𝑦 = න 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)

First order differential equations

𝑡+𝐶
You need to be able to solve differential 𝑥=
2
equations by separation of variables, and Sub in C = 6 which we
sketch families of solution curves worked out
𝑡+6
𝑥=
2
Find the general solution of the Square both sides
2
differential equation: 𝑡+6
𝑥=
𝑑𝑥 2
= 𝑥 𝑡≥0
𝑑𝑡
And then find the particular solution if
x = 9 when t = 0.

 As always, start by separating the

variables and integrating

 The difference in this question is that

you will be able to find the value of the
constant, C

4A
 First order differential equations
𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
You can solve exact equations where The product rule 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
one side is the exact derivative of a
product, and the other side can be
𝑑 3
integrated with respect to x Imagine we were finding: 𝑥 𝑦 (so u = x3 and v = y)
𝑑𝑥
Find the general solution of the  We can use the product rule above
following equation:
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
𝑥3
+ 3𝑥 2 𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣 𝑢 = 𝑥3 𝑣=𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 Sub in the
𝑑𝑥 values to 𝑑𝑢 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑦
𝑑 3 𝑑𝑦 the right = 3𝑥 2 =
In this example you will not be able to 𝑥 𝑦 = 𝑥3 + 3𝑥 2 𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
separate the variables easily, if at all! 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Notice that d/dx(x3y) is equivalent to the left side of the

 You can use a pattern from the
original equation
product rule however…
 This means we can replace it!
𝑑𝑦
𝑥3 + 3𝑥 2 𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥
𝑑𝑥 Replace the left hand side with
𝑑 3 equivalent expression
𝑥 𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥
𝑑𝑥
4B
 First order differential equations
𝑑𝑦
You can solve exact equations where 𝑥3 + 3𝑥 2 𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥
one side is the exact derivative of a 𝑑𝑥 Replace the left hand side with
product, and the other side can be 𝑑 3 equivalent expression
𝑥 𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥
integrated with respect to x 𝑑𝑥
Take integrals of
each side
Find the general solution of the 𝑑 3
න 𝑥 𝑦 = න 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥  On the left side, the integral
following equation: 𝑑𝑥 and differential cancel each other
𝑑𝑦  On the right side calculate the
𝑥3
+ 3𝑥 2 𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 𝑥 3 𝑦 = −𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥 + 𝐶 integral of sinx
𝑑𝑥
Divide by x3
1 1
In this example you will not be able to 𝑦 = − 3 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥 + 3 𝐶
𝑥 𝑥
separate the variables easily, if at all!
Other forms of this answer, such as the one
 You can use a pattern from the below, are also fine!
product rule however…
−𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥 + 𝐶
𝑦=
𝑥3

4B
 First order differential equations
You can solve exact equations where
one side is the exact derivative of a General pattern
product, and the other side can be
integrated with respect to x
This function … differentiates to
of x… this function of x
You can use a general pattern to see
whether this is doable.

It is possible if the conditions to the 𝑑𝑦

right are met. 𝑥3 + 3𝑥 2 𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥
𝑑𝑥
If the conditions are met, you can
change the expression on the left side
to:
… differentiates to
𝑑 this function of y This function of y…
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑢𝑛𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑥 (𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑢𝑛𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑦)
𝑑𝑥 (with respect to x)

To put this using ‘proper’ mathematical

notation…

4B
 𝑑
𝑓 𝑥 𝑔′(𝑦) + 𝑓 ′ 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)
𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can solve exact equations where General pattern
one side is the exact derivative of a
product, and the other side can be 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔′(𝑦) + 𝑓 ′ 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)
integrated with respect to x

Using mathematical notation  Can be written as:

𝑑
𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)
𝑑𝑥

The most common one you’ll see is:

𝑑𝑦
𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑥
Can be written as:
𝑑
𝑓 𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑥

4B
 𝑑
𝑓 𝑥 𝑔′(𝑦) + 𝑓 ′ 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)
𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑦
You can solve exact equations where 6𝑥 2 𝑦 + 6𝑥𝑦 2 = 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥
one side is the exact derivative of a 𝑑𝑥 Imagine the first
part was split up – we
product, and the other side can be can see the pattern
integrated with respect to x 𝑑𝑦 will work!
(3𝑥 2 )(2𝑦) + 6𝑥𝑦 2 = 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥
𝑑𝑥 Rewrite the left side
Find the general solution of the using the rule you
following differential equation: 𝑑 have seen
3𝑥 2𝑦 2 = 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑥
Take integrals
6𝑥 2 𝑦 + 6𝑥𝑦 2 = 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 of each side
𝑑𝑥 𝑑
න 3𝑥 2 𝑦 2 = න 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥
 At a first glance it might look like 𝑑𝑥
the pattern will not work here Calculate
3𝑥 2 𝑦 2 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑥 + 𝐶
 6x2 does not differentiate to 6x, Divide by
3x2
and y2 does not differentiate to 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑥 + 𝐶
ydy/dx 𝑦2 =
3𝑥 2 Square root (or
just leave as it is
 However, if we split up part of the with y2!)
equation, we can see that the 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑥 + 𝐶
𝑦=
pattern does work 3𝑥 2

4B
 𝑑𝑦 𝑑
𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔′(𝑦) + 𝑓 ′ 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑦 2𝑦 5
You can solve first order linear 𝑑𝑥
+
𝑥
= 2
4𝑥
differential equations of the type Multiply all terms
𝒅𝒚
+ 𝑷𝒚 = 𝑸, where P and Q are by 4x2
𝒅𝒙
2
𝑑𝑦 2𝑦 4𝑥 2 5 4𝑥 2
functions of x. This is done by 4𝑥
𝑑𝑥
+
𝑥
=
4𝑥 2
multiplying by an integrating factor
Simplify each one
to produce an exact equation 𝑑𝑦
4𝑥 2 + 8𝑥𝑦 = 5
𝑑𝑥
Find the general solution of the Rewrite now using
the pattern from 4B
following equation: 𝑑
4𝑥 2 𝑦 = 5
𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦 2𝑦 5 Take integrals of
+ = 2 each side
𝑑𝑥 𝑥 4𝑥 𝑑
න 4𝑥 2 𝑦 = න 5
𝑑𝑥
 As you can see, at the moment the Calculate
pattern from section 4B is not
there so we cannot use it… 4𝑥 2 𝑦 = 5𝑥 + 𝐶
Divide by 4x2
5𝑥 + 𝐶
 However, we can multiply the 𝑦=
4𝑥 2
terms to try and ‘create’ the Alternative form
pattern 5 𝐶 (either is fine)
𝑦= + 2
4𝑥 4𝑥

4C
 𝑑𝑦 𝑑
𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔′(𝑦) + 𝑓 ′ 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can solve first order linear
differential equations of the type
𝒅𝒚
+ 𝑷𝒚 = 𝑸, where P and Q are
𝒅𝒙
functions of x. This is done by
multiplying by an integrating factor
to produce an exact equation

With the example you just saw, you can

work out what to multiply by using a
little bit of mental ‘trial and error’

 Sometimes though it can be much

harder to see what to do

 Fortunately, there is a method to

find what you need to multiply by to
make the equation fit the pattern!

4C
 𝑑𝑦 𝑑
𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔′(𝑦) + 𝑓 ′ 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦) 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔(𝑦)
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can solve first order linear 𝑑𝑦
differential equations of the type + 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 Multiply by f(x)
𝒅𝒚 𝑑𝑥
+ 𝑷𝒚 = 𝑸, where P and Q are  The idea is to produce an
𝒅𝒙 𝑑𝑦
functions of x. This is done by 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑓(𝑥)𝑃𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥)𝑄 ‘exact’ equation which follows
multiplying by an integrating factor 𝑑𝑥 the pattern we know
to produce an exact equation
Now since we have produced an exact equation, the left
Solve the general equation: side must now equal the general pattern from before

𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑓(𝑥)𝑃𝑦 = 𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 The second terms
must be equal if the
Where P and Q are functions of x. sides are equal
𝑓 𝑥 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑓 ′ 𝑥 𝑦
Divide by y
′
 Our objective here is to find a 𝑓 𝑥 𝑃=𝑓 𝑥
function of x, f(x), that we can Divide by
multiply by to make the equation exact. 𝑓′ 𝑥 f(x)
𝑃=
It needs to be in terms of what we 𝑓(𝑥)
already have.

4C
 𝑑𝑦
𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

𝑓′ 𝑥
You can solve first order linear 𝑃=
𝑓(𝑥)
differential equations of the type Take integrals
𝒅𝒚
+ 𝑷𝒚 = 𝑸, where P and Q are of each side
𝒅𝒙 𝑓′ 𝑥
functions of x. This is done by න 𝑃 𝑑𝑥 = න 𝑑𝑥
𝑓(𝑥)
multiplying by an integrating factor The right side is a
to produce an exact equation ‘standard pattern’
න 𝑃 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑙𝑛 𝑓(𝑥)
Solve the general equation: Take exponentials
of each side
𝑑𝑦 𝑒 ‫)𝑥(𝑓 = 𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄
𝑑𝑥
Where P and Q are functions of x.
What this means is:

 Our objective here is to find a
function of x, f(x), that we can
multiply by to make the equation exact.
It needs to be in terms of what we
already have.
 If we have a differential equation in the form shown
to the left…
 You can multiply all terms by 𝑒 ‫ 𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬to make it exact
 After this, you can follow the process from before!

4C
 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑦
You can solve first order linear − 4𝑦 = 𝑒 𝑥 𝑆𝑜 𝑃 = −4
𝑑𝑥
differential equations of the type
𝒅𝒚
+ 𝑷𝒚 = 𝑸, where P and Q are
𝒅𝒙
functions of x. This is done by 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬
multiplying by an integrating factor Sub in the value of P
to produce an exact equation 𝑒 ‫ ׬‬−4 𝑑𝑥
Calculate the
Integral
Find the general solution of the 𝑒 −4𝑥
equation:
𝑑𝑦 So to make our differential equation exact,
− 4𝑦 = 𝑒 𝑥 we need to multiply all terms by e-4x
𝑑𝑥

 Now we can apply the rule we just

saw, as it isn’t completely clear
what we should multiply by to make
this work…

 Start by writing down the value of

P in this equation

4C
 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

So to make our differential equation exact, we need
You can solve first order linear
to multiply all terms by e-4x
differential equations of the type
𝒅𝒚
+ 𝑷𝒚 = 𝑸, where P and Q are 𝑑𝑦
𝒅𝒙 − 4𝑦 = 𝑒 𝑥
functions of x. This is done by 𝑑𝑥
multiplying by an integrating factor Multiply all by e-4x
to produce an exact equation 𝑑𝑦
𝑒 −4𝑥 − 4𝑒 −4𝑥 𝑦 = 𝑒 −4𝑥 𝑒 𝑥
𝑑𝑥 Differentiating e-4x would give -4e-4x,
so you can see the left side is now an
Find the general solution of the
exact equation
equation: 𝑑 −4𝑥  Hence, we can rewrite it!
𝑒 𝑦 = 𝑒 −4𝑥 𝑒 𝑥
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑥
− 4𝑦 = 𝑒 𝑥 We can also simplify the right side
𝑑𝑥  We are multiplying so add the
𝑑 −4𝑥 powers together
 Now we can apply the rule we just 𝑒 𝑦 = 𝑒 −3𝑥
𝑑𝑥
saw, as it isn’t completely clear Integrate each side – cancels
d/
what we should multiply by to make dx on the left
𝑒 −4𝑥 𝑦 = න 𝑒 −3𝑥
this work… Calculate the integral
1 on the right side
 Start by writing down the value of 𝑒 −4𝑥 𝑦 = − 𝑒 −3𝑥 + 𝐶
3 Multiply by e4x (same
P in this equation
1 as dividing by e-4x)
𝑦 = − 𝑒 𝑥 + 𝐶𝑒 4𝑥
3
4C
 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑦
You can solve first order linear 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥 + 2𝑦𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 4 𝑥 Divide all terms by cosx
𝑑𝑥
differential equations of the type
𝒅𝒚
+ 𝑷𝒚 = 𝑸, where P and Q are  Sinx becomes tanx, cos4x
𝒅𝒙 𝑑𝑦 becomes cos3x
+ 2𝑦𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 𝑥
functions of x. This is done by 𝑑𝑥
multiplying by an integrating factor
to produce an exact equation Now it is in the correct form, we can see the value of
P is 2tanx…
Find the general solution of the
equation: 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬
Sub in the value of P
𝑑𝑦
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥 + 2𝑦𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 4 𝑥 𝑒 ‫ ׬‬2𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 Integrate (this one is in the
formula booklet!)
 Before we can do anything with P, 𝑒 2𝑙𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑥
we need to write this in the above Use the power law
form (ie – with just dy/dx at the front) 𝑒 𝑙𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑐
2𝑥
The e and ln cancel out (this often
happens in these questions!)
= 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥

So we need to multiply each part of the equation by sec2x

(at the stage where it had only dy/dx at the front)

4C
 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑓′ 𝑥 𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑦
You can solve first order linear 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥 + 2𝑦𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 4 𝑥 Divide all terms by cosx
𝑑𝑥
differential equations of the type
𝒅𝒚
+ 𝑷𝒚 = 𝑸, where P and Q are  Sinx becomes tanx, cos4x
𝒅𝒙 𝑑𝑦 becomes cos3x
+ 2𝑦𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 𝑥
functions of x. This is done by 𝑑𝑥
multiplying by an integrating factor Multiply by sec2x
to produce an exact equation 𝑑𝑦
𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 + 2𝑦𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑥𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 𝑥𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥
𝑑𝑥 As sec2x = 1/cos2x, the
Find the general solution of the right hand side can be
𝑑𝑦 simplified
equation: 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 + 2𝑦𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑥𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥
𝑑𝑥 Combine the left side into a
𝑑𝑦 single differential as you have
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥 + 2𝑦𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 4 𝑥 seen
𝑑𝑥 𝑑
𝑦𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥
𝑑𝑥
 Before we can do anything with P, Integrate – cancels
out the d/dx
we need to write this in the above 𝑦𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 = න 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥
form (ie – with just dy/dx at the front)
Calculate the
right side
𝑦𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 + 𝐶 Divide by sec2x
(same as multiplying
by cos2x)
𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝑥(𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 + 𝐶)

4C
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

𝑦 Multiply by x
You can use a given substitution to 𝑧= 𝑥𝑧 = 𝑦
𝑥
reduce a differential equation into one
of the earlier types of equation, which
you can then solve 𝑦 = 𝑥𝑧 𝑢=𝑥 𝑣=𝑧
Use the
product rule 𝑑𝑢 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑧
Use the substitution z = y/x to transform 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑧 =1 =
the differential equation: = 𝑥 +𝑧 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦 𝑥 2 + 3𝑦 2
= Now we have expressions for y and dy/dx, we can replace
𝑑𝑥 2𝑥𝑦 them in the differential equation to eliminate the y terms
into a differential equation in x and z. By
solving this equation, find the general
𝑑𝑦 𝑥 2 + 3𝑦 2
=
solution of the original equation, writing y2 𝑑𝑥 2𝑥𝑦 Replace y and
in terms of x. dy/
dx terms
𝑑𝑧 𝑥 2 + 3(𝑥𝑧)2
𝑥 +𝑧=
 As we are turning this into an equation 𝑑𝑥 2𝑥(𝑥𝑧)
in x and z, we are wanting to remove y
Simplify
2 2 2
𝑑𝑧 𝑥 + 3𝑥 𝑧
 We need an expression for y in terms 𝑥 +𝑧 =
of x and z, as well as an expression for 𝑑𝑥 2𝑥 2 𝑧
dy/ You can divide all of the
dx in terms of x and z
fraction on the right by x2
𝑑𝑧 1 + 3𝑧 2
 Use the substitution first to find 𝑥 +𝑧=
these 𝑑𝑥 2𝑧

4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can use a given substitution to
reduce a differential equation into one 𝑑𝑧 1 + 3𝑧 2
of the earlier types of equation, which 𝑥 +𝑧=
you can then solve 𝑑𝑥 2𝑧
Subtract z
2
𝑑𝑧 1 + 3𝑧
Use the substitution z = y/x to transform 𝑥 = −𝑧
the differential equation: 𝑑𝑥 2𝑧 Multiply ‘z’ by 2z/2z so
it can be combined
𝑑𝑦 𝑥 2 + 3𝑦 2 𝑑𝑧 1 + 3𝑧 2 2𝑧 2
= 𝑥 = −
𝑑𝑥 2𝑧 2𝑧
𝑑𝑥 2𝑥𝑦 Combine
into a differential equation in x and z. By fractions
𝑑𝑧 1 + 𝑧 2
solving this equation, find the general 𝑥 =
solution of the original equation, writing y2 𝑑𝑥 2𝑧 In this case, we can easily separate
in terms of x. the variables!
1 + 𝑧2 1  Divide by x, multiply by dx
𝑑𝑧 = 𝑑𝑥
 As we are turning this into an equation 2𝑧 𝑥 Divide by the ‘z’ based fraction
in x and z, we are wanting to remove y 2𝑧 1 (effectively flipping it as it moves
𝑑𝑧 = 𝑑𝑥 across)
1 + 𝑧2 𝑥
 We need an expression for y in terms Now we take
of x and z, as well as an expression for integrals
dy/ 2𝑧 1
dx in terms of x and z න 𝑑𝑧 = න 𝑑𝑥
1 + 𝑧2 𝑥
 Use the substitution first to find
these

4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can use a given substitution to
reduce a differential equation into one
of the earlier types of equation, which
you can then solve 2𝑧 1
න 𝑑𝑧 = න 𝑑𝑥
1 + 𝑧2 𝑥 Integrate both sides – the left
Use the substitution z = y/x to transform is a ‘standard pattern’ from C4
the differential equation: 𝑙𝑛 1 + 𝑧 2 = 𝑙𝑛 𝑥 + 𝐶
C will be equal to ln of a
𝑑𝑦 𝑥 2 + 3𝑦 2 number (let’s call it k)
= 𝑙𝑛 1 + 𝑧 2 = 𝑙𝑛 𝑥 + 𝑙𝑛𝑘
𝑑𝑥 2𝑥𝑦 Combine the logarithms on the right
into a differential equation in x and z. By 𝑙𝑛 1 + 𝑧 2
= 𝑙𝑛 𝑘𝑥
solving this equation, find the general Now you can remove the
solution of the original equation, writing y2 logarithms completely
in terms of x.
1 + 𝑧 2 = 𝑘𝑥
Replace z using the original
𝑦2 substitution (to bring y back in)
 As we are turning this into an equation 1+ = 𝑘𝑥
in x and z, we are wanting to remove y 𝑥2
Subtract 1
𝑦2
 We need an expression for y in terms = 𝑘𝑥 − 1
of x and z, as well as an expression for 𝑥2
Multiply by x2
dy/
dx in terms of x and z
𝑦 2 = 𝑥 2 𝑘𝑥 − 1
 Use the substitution first to find
these

4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

Multiply by y,
You can use a given substitution to Rewrite 1 Divide by z 1 Rewrite
𝑧 = 𝑦 −1 𝑧= 𝑦= 𝑦 = 𝑧 −1
reduce a differential equation into one 𝑦 𝑧
of the earlier types of equation, which
you can then solve
𝑦 = 𝑧 −1
Use the substitution z = y-1
to transform
the differential equation: Differentiate with respect to x (remember
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑧 to include dz/dx on the right side)
𝑑𝑦 = −𝑧 −2
+ 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥𝑦 2 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑥 Rewrite
into a differential equation in x and z. By 𝑑𝑦 1 𝑑𝑧
=− 2
solving this equation, find the general 𝑑𝑥 𝑧 𝑑𝑥
solution of the original equation, writing y
in terms of x

 As before, start by finding expressions

for y and dy/dx, both in terms of x and z

4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

1 1 𝑑𝑦 1 𝑑𝑧
𝑧= 𝑦= =− 2
You can use a given substitution to 𝑦 𝑧 𝑑𝑥 𝑧 𝑑𝑥
reduce a differential equation into one
of the earlier types of equation, which
you can then solve 𝑑𝑦
+ 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥𝑦 2
𝑑𝑥
Use the substitution z = y-1 to transform Replace dy/dx and y with
the differential equation: 2 expressions in x and z
1 𝑑𝑧 1 1
− 2 +𝑥 =𝑥
𝑑𝑦 𝑧 𝑑𝑥 𝑧 𝑧
+ 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥𝑦 2 Simplify terms
𝑑𝑥 1 𝑑𝑧 𝑥 𝑥
into a differential equation in x and z. By − + =
𝑧 2 𝑑𝑥 𝑧 𝑧 2
solving this equation, find the general
solution of the original equation, writing y Multiply by z2
in terms of x 𝑑𝑧
− + 𝑥𝑧 = 𝑥
𝑑𝑥
 As before, start by finding expressions Rearrange to have a positive dz/dx
for y and dy/dx, both in terms of x and z 𝑑𝑧 (effectively multiplying by -1)
− 𝑥𝑧 = −𝑥
𝑑𝑥
From this you can see that P = -x, and calculate the
integrating factor
𝑥2
−
𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑒 ‫ ׬‬−𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑒 2
Sub in P Calculate the
integral

4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can use a given substitution to 𝑑𝑧
− 𝑥𝑧 = −𝑥
reduce a differential equation into one 𝑑𝑥
of the earlier types of equation, which Multiply by the
you can then solve integrating factor
𝑥2 𝑑𝑧 𝑥2 𝑥2
− − −
𝑒 2 − 𝑥𝑒 2 𝑧 = −𝑥𝑒 2
𝑑𝑥 The left side can now be
Use the substitution z = y-1
to transform grouped as a single
the differential equation: differential as we have seen
𝑑 − 𝑥2 −
𝑥2
𝑑𝑦 𝑒 2 𝑧 = −𝑥𝑒 2
+ 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥𝑦 2 𝑑𝑥 Take integrals of both
𝑑𝑥 sides (cancels the d/dx)
𝑥2 𝑥2
into a differential equation in x and z. By 𝑒 −
2𝑧 = න −𝑥𝑒 −
2
solving this equation, find the general
solution of the original equation, writing y This is another
in terms of x ‘standard pattern’
Start with this
 As before, start by finding expressions expression and 𝑥2
for y and dy/dx, both in terms of x and z differentiate it 𝑒 −
2 Differentiating this gives the
expression we are integrating
𝑥2
− 𝑥2
𝑒 2
−𝑥𝑒 −
2  So this is the integral we want!

Always look for standard patterns first

 If you can’t find one, only then try using ‘integration by parts’

4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can use a given substitution to 𝑑𝑧
− 𝑥𝑧 = −𝑥
reduce a differential equation into one 𝑑𝑥
of the earlier types of equation, which Multiply by the
you can then solve integrating factor
𝑥2 𝑑𝑧 𝑥2 𝑥2
− − −
𝑒 2 − 𝑥𝑒 2 𝑧 = −𝑥𝑒 2
𝑑𝑥 The left side can now be
Use the substitution z = y-1
to transform grouped as a single
the differential equation: differential as we have seen
𝑑 − 𝑥2 −
𝑥2
𝑑𝑦 𝑒 2 𝑧 = −𝑥𝑒 2
+ 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥𝑦 2 𝑑𝑥 Take integrals of both
𝑑𝑥 sides (cancels the d/dx)
𝑥2 𝑥2
into a differential equation in x and z. By 𝑒 −
2𝑧 = න −𝑥𝑒 −
2
solving this equation, find the general
solution of the original equation, writing y Use the integral we found
in terms of x 𝑥2 𝑥2
− −
𝑒 2𝑧 = 𝑒 2 +𝐶 𝑥2
Divide by 𝑒 −
(same as
 As before, start by finding expressions
2
𝑥2
for y and dy/dx, both in terms of x and z 𝑥2 multiplying by 𝑒 2

𝑧 = 1 + 𝐶𝑒 2
𝑥2
− z = y-1 so z = 1/y
𝑒 2 𝑥2
1
= 1 + 𝐶𝑒 2
𝑦 Rearrange (flip both
1 sides effectively)
𝑦= 𝑥2
1 + 𝐶𝑒 2
4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can use a given substitution to 𝑢 =𝑦−𝑥
reduce a differential equation into one Add x
of the earlier types of equation, which
you can then solve 𝑢+𝑥 =𝑦 Swap round (you might not need
to do this actually!)
𝑦 =𝑢+𝑥
Use the substitution u = y – x to transform
the differential equation: Differentiate
𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑢
𝑑𝑦 𝑦 − 𝑥 + 2 = +1
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
=
𝑑𝑥 𝑦 − 𝑥 + 3
into a differential equation in u and x.

By solving this equation, show that the

general solution of the original equation
may be written in the form:
2
𝑦−𝑥 + 6𝑦 − 4𝑥 − 2𝐶 = 0
Where C is an arbitrary constant.

 In this case, u can directly replace the

‘y – x’ parts on the fraction

 We still need to rearrange the

substitution to find dy/dx though!
4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑢
You can use a given substitution to
𝑢 =𝑦−𝑥 = +1
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
reduce a differential equation into one
of the earlier types of equation, which
you can then solve 𝑑𝑦 𝑦 − 𝑥 + 2
=
𝑑𝑥 𝑦 − 𝑥 + 3
Use the substitution u = y – x to transform Replace (y – x) and dy/dx
the differential equation: with expressions in u and x
𝑑𝑢 𝑢+2
𝑑𝑦 𝑦 − 𝑥 + 2 +1=
= 𝑑𝑥 𝑢+3
𝑑𝑥 𝑦 − 𝑥 + 3 Subtract 1
𝑑𝑢 𝑢 + 2
into a differential equation in u and x. = −1
𝑑𝑥 𝑢 + 3 Change 1 to a fraction
By solving this equation, show that the to be combined
𝑑𝑢 𝑢 + 2 𝑢 + 3
general solution of the original equation = −
may be written in the form: 𝑑𝑥 𝑢 + 3 𝑢 + 3 Combine as a single fraction
(subtract u and subtract 3
2
𝑦−𝑥 + 6𝑦 − 4𝑥 − 2𝐶 = 0 𝑑𝑢 −1 from the top)
=
Where C is an arbitrary constant. 𝑑𝑥 𝑢 + 3
Separate the variables
(multiply by dx and (u + 3)
 In this case, u can directly replace the 𝑢 + 3 𝑑𝑢 = −1 𝑑𝑥
‘y – x’ parts on the fraction Integrate both
sides
 We still need to rearrange the න 𝑢 + 3 𝑑𝑢 = න −1 𝑑𝑥
substitution to find dy/dx though!
4D
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑢
+ 𝑃𝑦 = 𝑄 𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑦 𝑒 ‫𝑥𝑑 𝑃 ׬‬ 𝑢𝑣 = 𝑢 +𝑣
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

First order differential equations

You can use a given substitution to න 𝑢 + 3 𝑑𝑢 = න −1 𝑑𝑥
reduce a differential equation into one
of the earlier types of equation, which Integrate both
you can then solve 𝑢2 sides
+ 3𝑢 = −𝑥 + 𝐶
2 Replace u with
Use the substitution u = y – x to transform y-x
the differential equation: (𝑦 − 𝑥)2
+ 3(𝑦 − 𝑥) = −𝑥 + 𝐶
𝑑𝑦 𝑦 − 𝑥 + 2 2
= Multiply all by 2
𝑑𝑥 𝑦 − 𝑥 + 3
(𝑦 − 𝑥)2 + 6(𝑦 − 𝑥) = −2𝑥 + 2𝐶
into a differential equation in u and x. Expand the
bracket
(𝑦 − 𝑥)2 + 6𝑦 − 6𝑥 = −2𝑥 + 2𝐶
By solving this equation, show that the Add 2x,
general solution of the original equation subtract 2C
may be written in the form: (𝑦 − 𝑥)2 + 6𝑦 − 4𝑥 − 2𝐶 = 0
2
𝑦−𝑥 + 6𝑦 − 4𝑥 − 2𝐶 = 0
Where C is an arbitrary constant.

 In this case, u can directly replace the

‘y – x’ parts on the fraction

 We still need to rearrange the

substitution to find dy/dx though!
4D
 Summary
• You have learnt how to solve first order
differential equations

• We have seen several methods for this

and the drawing of solution curves

• Ensure your knowledge of C4

Integration is solid as it helps a lot with
these!