The Hidden Symmetry of Calculus
Welcome, fellow traveler on the path to JEE mastery. Today, we are going to peel back the layers of a differential equation that might look intimidating at first glance, but hides a beautiful, elegant symmetry.
The problem asks us to solve x2f′(x)=2xf(x)+3 given the anchor point f(1)=4. Our mission is to find 2f(2). Let us embark on this journey.
Phase 1
The Art of Rearrangement
When you encounter a differential equation, your first task is to organize the chaos. We have f′(x) and f(x) on opposite sides.
Let us bring them together:
x2f′(x)−2xf(x)=3
Now, pause and look at this expression. Does it stir a memory? In calculus, we are often looking for patterns that match the derivative rules we learned in our early days.
Specifically, look at the quotient rule:
dxd(vu)=v2vu′−uv′
If we set v=x2, then v′=2x. The numerator of our quotient rule would be x2f′(x)−f(x)(2x). This is exactly what we have on our left side!
Phase 2
The Strategic Division
We have the numerator of the quotient rule, but we are missing the denominator, v2. Since v=x2, v2 must be x4.
This is the 'Aha!' moment. By dividing the entire equation by
x4, we transform the left side into a perfect derivative:
x4x2f′(x)−2xf(x)=x43
Now, the left side is simply the derivative of a quotient:
dxd(x2f(x))=3x−4
We have successfully condensed a complex relationship into a single, manageable derivative.
Phase 3
The Integration
With the equation in the form dxd(x2f(x))=3x−4, the path forward is clear. We integrate both sides with respect to x.
The integral of a derivative is the function itself, so the left side becomes
x2f(x). On the right, we apply the power rule for integration:
∫3x−4dx=3(−3x−3)+C=−x−3+C
Thus, we arrive at the general solution:
x2f(x)=−x31+C
Multiplying through by
x2, we isolate our function:
f(x)=−x1+Cx2
Phase 4
Finding the Anchor
We are almost there. We have a general solution, but we need the specific one. We use our anchor, f(1)=4.
Substituting
x=1 and
f(1)=4 into our equation, we get:
4=−11+C(1)2⇒4=−1+C
Solving for
C, we find
C=5. Our specific function is revealed:
f(x)=5x2−x1
Phase 5
The Final Calculation
Finally, we calculate
f(2):
f(2)=5(2)2−21=20−0.5=19.5=239
The question asks for
2f(2), so we multiply by
2:
2×239=39
And there it is—a clean, satisfying integer. Remember, JEE problems aren't just about calculation; they are about recognizing the hidden structures of mathematics. Keep practicing, keep observing, and the patterns will reveal themselves to you. The final answer is 39.