Separation of Variables (Edexcel A Level Maths): Revision Note

Separation of Variables

What does separation of variables mean?

• Many differential equations used in modelling either …

  • … have two variables involved (ie x and y), or,

  • ... involve a function of the dependent variable (ie y) only

• This is particularly true where proportionality is involved

  • eg population change is dependent on both time and the size of the population

• This type of question is covered in more detail in Modelling with Differential Equations

How do I know if I need to separate the variable in a question?

• There is a product of functions in different variables

  • ie dy/dx = f(x) × g(y)

• It will not be possible to integrate directly from an equation in the form dy/dx= g(y)

How do I solve a separating variables question?

• STEP 1: Separate all y terms on one side and all x terms on the other side

• STEP 2: Integrate both sides

• STEP 3: Include one “overall” constant of integration

• STEP 4: Use the initial or boundary condition to find the particular solution

• STEP 5: Write the particular solution in sensible, or required, format