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MathsMediumClass 12

Exact Differential Equations

Differential Equations

12

JEE Qs

8%

Hard

60

min

Always verify the exactness condition ∂M/∂y = ∂N/∂x before proceeding and be meticulous with partial differentiation and integration steps, paying close attention to which variables are treated as constants.

🧮 Key Formulas

A first-order differential equation M(x, y) dx + N(x, y) dy = 0 is exact if ∂M/∂y = ∂N/∂x.
If the equation is exact, its general solution is given by U(x,y) = C, where U(x,y) can be found by:
U(x,y) = ∫ M(x,y) dx (treating y as a constant) + ∫ (terms of N(x,y) that do not contain x) dy = C
OR
U(x,y) = ∫ N(x,y) dy (treating x as a constant) + ∫ (terms of M(x,y) that do not contain y) dx = C

✅ Key Points for JEE

  • 1The fundamental step is to correctly identify M(x, y) and N(x, y) from the given differential equation in the form M dx + N dy = 0.
  • 2The exactness condition, ∂M/∂y = ∂N/∂x, must be verified before applying the solution method. If this condition is not met, the equation is not exact (unless an integrating factor is used, which is a related but separate topic).
  • 3When integrating M(x,y) with respect to x, treat y as a constant. When integrating N(x,y) with respect to y, treat x as a constant.
  • 4When using the solution formula, ensure you correctly identify 'terms of N that do not contain x' (or 'terms of M that do not contain y') to avoid double counting or missing terms.
  • 5Always remember to add the arbitrary constant 'C' to the general solution.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Incorrectly identifying M and N, especially if the equation is not explicitly given in the M dx + N dy = 0 form.
  • Making errors in partial differentiation when checking the exactness condition (∂M/∂y and ∂N/∂x).
  • Misapplying the integration step, such as incorrectly treating variables as constants or making mistakes in selecting which terms from N (or M) to integrate.
  • Forgetting to include the arbitrary constant of integration 'C' in the final solution.

NCERT Chapters

  • Class 12 Maths Ch 9: Differential Equations