# Separable Differential Equation (Check Answer)

Question: Determine all differentiable functions in the form $y$ = $f(x)$ which have the properties:

$f'(x)$=$(f(x))^3$ and $f(0)=2$

What I have done

I set up the differential equation as such

$$\frac{dy}{dx} = y^3$$

$$\int y^{-3} dy = \int dx$$

$${-1\over 2y^2} = x + c$$

$${1\over 2y^2} = -x-c$$

At $y = 2 , x = 0 , c = -\frac{1}{8}$

$${1\over 2y^2} = {1\over 8} - x$$

$$2y^2 = {8\over {1-8x}}$$

$$y^2 = {4\over {1-8x}}$$

$$y = ±\sqrt{4\over {1-8x}}$$

Is this correct? Are there any limits of x or y to consider?

• Yes it is okay. – SchrodingersCat Dec 28 '15 at 6:15
• But if the sign is negative then is your initial condition true? – Elliot G Dec 28 '15 at 6:21
• @ElliotG Therefore the conditions is y = the positive equation not negative and x =/= 1/8? – bigfocalchord Dec 28 '15 at 6:35
• @dydxx That is correct – GaussTheBauss Dec 28 '15 at 6:46

This is a very good solution and I detect no flaws in it. However, by taking the square root, you have introduced a superfluous solution ($y = -\sqrt{4\over {1-8x}}$) into the set of solutions. The solution here is unique.
$$y = f(x) = \sqrt{4\over {1-8x}}$$