# Non-linear first order PDE

I am trying to solve a PDE

$x (u_x)^2 + u_y = y$

$u(x,0)=x$

using the method of characteristics (i.e. $p=u_x$, $q=u_y$ and the above PDE is $xp^2+q-y=0$. I have tried so many times but just cant get it! Help would be appreciated!

• The next thing to do is to write out the characteristic equations. – Chee Han Apr 10 '17 at 21:46
• Yes, I have done that, but I know I am not doing it correctly, I get $x'(s)=2xp$, $y'(s)=1$, $u'(s)=2xp^2+q$, $p'(s)=-2p^2$, $q'(s)=1$ I think I am doing something wrong with my intiial condition for p and q – Reya Apr 10 '17 at 21:54
• Am i correct in saying $p(0)=1$ and $q(0)=-x(0)p(0)^2$ as $y(0)=0$ – Reya Apr 10 '17 at 21:59

$$0 = x\,\mrm{f}'^{2}\pars{x}\,\mrm{g}^{2}\pars{y} + \,\mrm{f}\pars{x}\,\mrm{g}'\pars{y} \implies x\,{\mrm{f}'^{2}\pars{x} \over \mrm{f}\pars{x}} = -\,{\mrm{g}'\pars{y} \over \,\mrm{g}^{2}\pars{y}} = \mu$$
$${\mrm{f}'\pars{x} \over \mrm{f}^{1/2}\pars{x}} = {\root{\mu} \over x^{1/2}}\,, \quad {\mrm{g}'\pars{y} \over \mrm{g}^{2}\pars{y}} = -\mu$$
$$2\,\mrm{f}^{1/2}\pars{x} = 2\root{\mu}x^{1/2} + 2a \quad -\,{1 \over \mrm{g}\pars{y}} = -\mu y - b$$