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Nov 2018 p32 q6
2320
A certain curve is such that its gradient at a general point with coordinates \((x, y)\) is proportional to \(\frac{y^2}{x}\). The curve passes through the points with coordinates \((1, 1)\) and \((e, 2)\). By setting up and solving a differential equation, find the equation of the curve, expressing \(y\) in terms of \(x\).
Solution
1. The gradient of the curve is given by \(\frac{dy}{dx} = k \frac{y^2}{x}\), where \(k\) is a constant.
2. Separate variables: \(\frac{1}{y^2} dy = \frac{k}{x} dx\).
3. Integrate both sides: \(-\frac{1}{y} = k \ln x + C\), where \(C\) is the constant of integration.
4. Use the point \((1, 1)\) to find \(C\): \(-1 = k \ln 1 + C \Rightarrow C = -1\).
5. Use the point \((e, 2)\) to find \(k\): \(-\frac{1}{2} = k \ln e - 1 \Rightarrow k = \frac{1}{2}\).
6. Substitute \(k\) and \(C\) back into the integrated equation: \(-\frac{1}{y} = \frac{1}{2} \ln x - 1\).