Differential Equations Workbook For Dummies®

12.1. Looking at Linear Equations

NOTE

Linear differential equations exclusively involve linear terms (meaning terms to the first power) of y, y′, y″, y″′, and so on. An equation that looks like this is considered linear:

y″ + 3y′ + 6y − 4 = 0

For a great explanation of linear first order differential equations and how to solve them, visit www.sosmath.com/diffeq/diffeq.html, look for the First Order Differential Equations bullet, and click the Linear Equations link. Then flip to Chapter 1 for some practice solving linear first order differential equations.