Throughout the chapter, we worked through several examples, each demonstrating how to apply the integrating factor method in different contexts. In each case, the systematic process of identifying the standard form, computing the integrating factor, and applying integration was key to solving the differential equation.
Summary of the Key Ideas.
First-Order Linear Differential Equations
The Product Rule
The integrating factor method works by rewriting the left side of the standard form as a reversed product rule.
Unfortunately, most equations are not given in a form where a reversed product rule is possible.
Integrating Factor
The integrating factor,
is the missing function needed for the reverse product rule and is found from
Multiplying the standard form of the equation by
leads to a new equation where the left-side can be written as
Integrating Factor Method