Question:medium

If the solution of the differential equation \[ \frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{ax + 3}{2y + 5} \] represents a circle, then $a$ is equal to:

Updated On: Jan 16, 2026
  • 3
  • -3

  • -2

  • 5
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

To find the value of \( a \) such that the solution to the differential equation \(\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{ax + 3}{2y + 5}\) represents a circle, we first integrate the equation. A circle's general form is \((x-h)^2 + (y-k)^2 = r^2\).

Given the equation: \(\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{ax + 3}{2y + 5}\), separate variables:

\((2y + 5)dy = (ax + 3)dx\)

Integrate both sides:

\(\int (2y + 5)dy = \int (ax + 3)dx\)

This yields:

\(y^2 + 5y = \frac{ax^2}{2} + 3x + C\)

Rearrange to resemble the circle equation:

\(y^2 + 5y - \left(\frac{ax^2}{2} + 3x + C\right) = 0\)

For this equation to be a circle, the coefficients of \(x^2\) and \(y^2\) must be equal. Equating these coefficients:

\(\frac{-a}{2} = 1\)

Solve for \(a\):

\(-a = 2\)

\(a = -2\)

Thus, \(a = -2\) ensures the solution represents a circle.

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