Analyzing the Setup
Imagine you are standing at the edge of a mathematical precipice. You are presented with the limit:
t→xlimt−xt2f(x)−x2f(t)=1
At first glance, it looks like a standard limit problem, but it is actually a hidden door to a differential equation. When you test the limit by substituting t=x, you immediately see the 0/0 indeterminate form.
This is the universe telling you that there is more beneath the surface. By applying L'Hopital's Rule, differentiating with respect to t, and treating x as a constant, we transform this limit into the elegant equation:
This is the moment where the problem shifts from a limit exercise to a differential equation challenge.
The Linear Path
Unlocking the Function
Now that we have 2xf(x)−x2f′(x)=1, our mission is to isolate f(x). We must bring this into the standard linear form f′(x)+P(x)f(x)=Q(x).
By dividing the entire equation by −x2, we get:
Here, P(x)=−x2 and Q(x)=−x21. The integrating factor, I.F.=e∫P(x)dx, is the key that unlocks the solution.
Calculating the integrating factor:
I.F.=e∫−x2dx=e−2lnx=x−2=x21
This is a beautiful step where the logarithms and exponentials cancel out perfectly.
The Final Reveal
Solving for f(x)
With the integrating factor in hand, we multiply our standard form equation by x21 to get:
Integrating both sides, we find:
x2f(x)=∫−x−4dx+C=3x31+C
Multiplying by x2, we arrive at the general solution:
Using the initial condition f(1)=1, we find 1=31+C, which gives C=32. Thus, our function is:
Final Calculation
Finally, calculating 2f(2)+3f(3) is a matter of simple substitution. We find:
Plugging these into 2f(2)+3f(3) gives:
2(617)+3(955)=317+355=372=24
You have successfully navigated the bridge between limits and differential equations. The final result is 24.