5th Topic

Partial Differential Equations

Method for finding the complete integral of a non-

linear partial differential equation

(Charpit’s Method)

Prepared by:
Dr. Sunil
NIT Hamirpur (HP)
(Last updated on 13-09-2007)

CHARPIT’S METHOD:
Charpit’s method is a general method for finding the complete solution of non-
linear partial differential equation of the first order of the form
f (x, y, z, p, q ) = 0 . (i)
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy . (ii)
∂x ∂y
Integrating (ii), we get the complete solution of (i).
Note: In order to integrate (ii), we must know p and q in terms of x, y, z.
For this purpose, introduce another non-linear partial differential equation of the first
order of the form
F(x , y, z, p, q, a ) = 0 , (iii)
involving an arbitrary constant ‘a’ compatible with (i).
Solving (i) and (iii), we get
p = p(x, y, z, a ) , q = q(x, y, z, b ) . (iv)
On substitution of (iv) in (ii), equation (ii) becomes integrable, resulting in the complete
solution of (i) in the form
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP) 2

φ(x, y, z, a , b ) = 0 , (v)
containing two arbitrary constants a and b.
To determine F: We differentiate (i) and (iii) partially w. r. t. x and y. Thus
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂p ∂f ∂q
+ .p + . + . = 0, (vi)
∂x ∂z ∂p ∂x ∂q ∂x
∂F ∂F ∂F ∂p ∂F ∂q
+ .p + . + . = 0, (vii)
∂x ∂z ∂p ∂x ∂q ∂x
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂p ∂f ∂q
+ .q + . + . = 0 , (viii)
∂y ∂z ∂p ∂y ∂q ∂y
∂F ∂F ∂F ∂p ∂F ∂q
+ .q + . + . = 0 . (ix)
∂y ∂z ∂p ∂y ∂q ∂y
∂p
Eliminating between (vi) and (vii), we get
∂x
 ∂f ∂F ∂F ∂f   ∂f ∂F ∂F ∂f   ∂f ∂F ∂F ∂f  ∂q
 . − .  +  . − . .p +  . − .  = 0. (x)
 ∂x ∂p ∂x ∂p   ∂z ∂p ∂z ∂p   ∂q ∂p ∂q ∂p  ∂x
∂q
Eliminating between (viii) and (ix), we get
∂y

 ∂f ∂F ∂F ∂f   ∂f ∂F ∂F ∂f   ∂f ∂F ∂F ∂f  ∂p
 . − .  +  . − . .q +  . − .  =0. (xi)
 ∂y ∂q ∂y ∂q   ∂z ∂q ∂z ∂q   ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q  ∂y
∂q ∂ 2z ∂ 2z ∂p
Since = = = and the last term in (x) and (xi) differ in sign only, then
∂x ∂x∂y ∂y∂x ∂y
adding (x) and (xi), we get

 ∂f ∂f  ∂F  ∂f ∂f  ∂F  ∂f ∂f  ∂F  ∂f  ∂F  ∂f  ∂F
 + p  +  + q  +  − p − q  +  −  +  −  = 0 , (xii)
 ∂x ∂z  ∂p  ∂y ∂z  ∂q  ∂p ∂q  ∂z  ∂p  ∂x  ∂q  ∂y

which is the linear partial differential equation (Lagrange’s linear equation) of the first
order with x, y, z, p, q as independent variables and F as the dependent variable.
∴ The auxiliary equations of (xii) are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = = . (xiii)
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
These equations (xiii) are known as Charpit’s equations.
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP) 3

Solving (xiii), we get relations (iv) of p and q, using which, the equation (ii) is integrated
resulting in the complete solution (v).

Note: All the equations of Charpit’s equations (xiii) need NOT be used. Choose the
simplest of (xiii), so that p and q are easily obtained.

Now let us solve complete solution of non-linear partial differential equation of the
first order by Charpit’s method:

Q.No.1.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: 2zx − px 2 − 2qxy + pq = 0 .

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f = 2zx − px 2 − 2qxy + pq = 0 . (i)

∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
∴ = 2z − 2px − 2qy , = −2qx , = 2x , = −x 2 + q , = −2 xy + p .
∂x ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q
Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = = .
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
2z − 2qy 0 px 2 − 2pq + 2qxy x 2 − q 2xy − p

From second member, we get q = a.

2 x (z − ay )
Putting q = a in (i), we get p = .
x2 − a
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y
2 x (z − ay ) dz − ady 2x
∴ dz = pdx + qdy = 2
dx + ady ⇒ = 2 dx .
x −a z − ay x −a
Integrating on both sides, we get

( )
log(z − ay ) = log x 2 − a + log b ⇒ z − ay = b x 2 − a . ( )
(
⇒ z = ay + b x 2 − a , )
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP) 4

which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.2.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

( )
method: p 2 + q 2 y = qz or qz − p 2 y − q 2 y = 0 .

( )
Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f = p 2 + q 2 y − qz = 0 . (i)
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
∴ = 0, = p2 + q2 , = −q , = 2py , = 2qy − z .
∂x ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q
Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = = .
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
− pq p 2 − qz − 2py − 2qy + z

From the first two members, we get pdx + qdy = 0 .

Integrating, we get p 2 + q 2 = a 2 ⇒ p = a 2 − q 2 . (ii)

a2y
Putting p 2 + q 2 = a 2 in (i), we get q = .
z

a 4y2 a 2
∴ From (ii), we get p = a 2 − q 2 = a 2 − = z − a 2y2 .
z2 z
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

a 2 a 2y
∴ dz = pdx + qdy = z − a 2 y 2 dx + dy .
z z
1 2
(
d z − a 2 y2 )
⇒ zdz − a 2 ydy = a z 2 − a 2 y 2 dx ⇒ 2 = adx .
z2 − a 2 y2
Integrating on both sides, we get

z 2 − a 2 y 2 = ax + b ⇒ z 2 = (ax + b )2 + a 2 y 2 ,
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.3.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP) 5

method: 2z + p 2 + qy + 2 y 2 = 0 .

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f = 2z + p 2 + qy + 2 y 2 = 0 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = = .
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
(
2p 4 y + 3q − 2p 2 + qy − 2p − y )
From first and fourth ratios, we get dp = −dx ⇒ p = − x + a .
Substituting p = a − x in (i), we get

q=
1
y
[
− 2z − 2 y 2 − (a − x )2 . ]
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

∴ dz = pdx + qdy = (a − x )dx −

1
y
[ ]
2z + 2 y 2 + (a − x )2 dy .

Multiplying both sides by 2 y 2 , we get

2 y 2dz + 4 yzdy = 2 y 2 (a − x )dx − 4 y3dy − 2 y(a − x )2 dy

Integrating on both sides, we get

[ ] [
2zy2 = − y 2 (a − x )2 + y 4 + b ⇒ y 2 (x − a )2 + 2z + y 2 = b , ]
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.4.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: z = p 2 x + q 2 y .

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f = p 2 x + q 2 y − z = 0 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = = .
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP) 6

dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
− p + p2 − q + q2 (
− 2 p2x + q2y ) − 2px − 2pq

p 2 dx + 2pxdp q 2 dy + 2qydq
From which, we have = .
p2x q2y

( ) ( )
Integrating on both sides, we get log p 2 x = log q 2 y + log a ⇒ p 2 x = aq 2 y . (ii)
1/ 2
2  z 
2
From (i) and (ii), we have aq y + q y = z ⇒ q =   .
 (1 + a )y 
1/ 2
 az 
From (ii), we have p =   .
 (1 + a )x 
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y
1/ 2 1/ 2
 az   z 
∴ dz = pdx + qdy =   dx +   dy ⇒ (1 + a ) dz = a
dx
+
dy
.
 (1 + a )x   (1 + a )y  z x y

Integrating on both sides, we get

{(1 + a )z} = (ax ) + y+b

⇒z=
[ ax + y + b ]2 , Ans.
(1 + a )
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.5.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s
method: pxy + pq + qy = yz .
Sol. Given non-linear partial differential equation is f = pxy + pq + qy − yz = 0 . (i)
Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = = .
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
py + p(− y ) (px + q ) + qp − p(xy + q ) − q(p + y ) − (xy + q ) − (p + y )
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
0 (px + q ) + qp − p(xy + q ) − q(p + y ) − (xy + q ) − (p + y )
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP) 7

From first member, we get dp = 0 ⇒ p = a .

Putting p = a in (i), we get
y(z − ax )
axy + aq + qy = yz ⇒ q(a + y ) = y(z − ax ) ⇒ q = .
a+y
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

y(z − ax ) dz − adx ydy dz − adx  a 

∴ dz = pdx + qdy = adx + dy ⇒ = ⇒ = 1 − dy .
a+y z − ax a+y z − ax  a + y
Integrating on both sides, we get
log(z − ax ) = y − a log(a + y ) + b , Ans.
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.6.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

method: z 2 = pqxy .

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f = z 2 − pqxy = 0 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = =
(
− (f x + pf z ) − f y + qf z )pf p + qf q df p df q

dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = =
− (− pqy + 2pz ) − (− pqx + 2qz ) − 2pqxy − qxy − pxy
Using the multipliers p, q, o, x, y, we have
pdx + xdp qdy + ydq
=
− pqxy + xpqy − 2pxz − qpxy + ypqx − 2 yqz
pdx + xdp qdy + ydq d( xp) d( yq)
⇒ = ⇒ = .
− 2 xpz − 2 yqz ( xp) ( yq)
xp
Integrating on both sides, we get xp = a yq ⇒ q = .
ay
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP) 8

xp
Substituting q = in (i) i.e. z 2 = pqxy , we get
ay

 xp  p2x 2 z
z 2 = p.  xy = ⇒ p = a. .
 ay  a x

xp x z z
Then q = = . a. = .
ay ay x ay
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y
z 1 z
∴ dz = pdx + qdy = a dx + dy
x a y
dz dx 1 dy
⇒ = a + .
z x a y
Integrating on both sides, we get

z = ax b y1 / b , Ans.
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.7.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

method: 2(z + px + qy ) = yp 2 .

Ans.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f = 2(z + px + qy ) − yp 2 = 0 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = = .
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = =
( )
− (2p + 2p ) − 2q − p + 2q 2xp − 2 yp + 2qy 2x − 2 yp 2 y
2 2

dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = =
− 2p  p 2  xp − yp 2 + yq x − yp y
−  2q −
 2 

Using first and fifth members, we have
dy dp a
= ⇒ p = ay − 2 = .
y − 2p y2
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP) 9

Substituting the value of p (i) i.e. 2(z + px + qy ) = yp 2 , we obtain

2
 a    2
2 yq = y  − 2z − 2 x  a  ⇒ q = a − z − ax .
 y2   y2  2y 4 y y3
   
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

 a2
a z ax 
∴ dz = pdx + qdy = dx +  − − dy .
y2  2y 4 y y3 
 
Regrouping the terms, we get

 ydz + zdy   aydx − axdy  a 2

  = + dy .
 y   y3  2y 4

Multiplying throughout by y, we obtain

 x  a 2 dy
d(yz ) = ad  + .
 y  2 y3

x a 2  1 
Integrating on both sides, we get yz = a + . + b.
y 2  − 2 y 2 

ax a2 b
⇒z= − + , Ans.
y2 4y3 y

which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.8.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s
method: px + qy = pq .
Ans.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f ≡ px + qy − pq = 0 . (i)
Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
p q − p(x − q ) − q(y − p ) − (x − q ) − (y − p )
Taking first two members, we have
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)10

dp dq
=
p q
Integrating on both sides, log p = log q + log a ⇒ p = aq . (ii)
Putting p = aq in (i), we have
y + ax
aqx + qy = aq 2 ⇒ q = .
a
From (ii), we obtain p = aq = y + ax
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

∴ dz = (y + ax )dx +
(y + ax ) dy ⇒ adz = (y + ax )(dy + adx )
a
Integrating on both sides, we get
1
az = (y + ax )2 + b ,
2
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
General Integral: Writing b = φ(a ) , we have
1
az = (y + ax )2 + φ(a ) (iii)
2
Differentiating (iii) partially w.r.t. a, we have
z = x (y + ax ) + φ′(a ) . (iv)
General integral is obtained by eliminating a from (iii) and (iv).
Singular Integral: Differentiating the complete integral partially w.r.t. a and b, we have
z = x (y + ax ) and 0 = 1. Hence there is no singular integral.
Q.No.9.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

method: 2(xy − px − qy ) + p 2 + q 2 = 0 .

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is 2(xy − px − qy ) + p 2 + q 2 = 0 .

Here f ≡ p 2 + q 2 − 2px − 2qy + 2xy = 0 (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)11

dp dq dx dy
⇒ = = =
− 2p + 2 y − 2q + 2x 2x − 2p 2 y − 2q
dp dq dx dy
⇒ = = =
−p+ y −q+x x−p y−q
dp + dq dx + dy
⇒ =
x+ y−p−q x + y−p−q
⇒ dp + dq = dx + dy

∴ (p − x ) + (q − y ) = a (ii)
dp + dq = dx + dy , (p − x ) + (q − y ) = 0
Equation (i) can be written as

(p − x )2 + (q − y)2 = (x − y)2 (iii)

Putting the values of (q − y ) from (ii) in (iii), we have

(p − x )2 + [a − (p − x )]2 = (x − y )2 ⇒ 2(p − x )2 − 2a (p − x ) + {a 2 − (x − y )2 }= 0

p − x = 2a +
[4a − 8{a
2 2
− (x − y )2 }] , (Taking only +ve sign)
4

⇒p=x+
1
2 
a+ {2(x − y)2 − a 2 }
∴ From (ii), q − y = a −
1
2 
a+ {2(x − y)2 − a 2 }
q = y+
1
2 
a− {2(x − y)2 − a 2 } .
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

∴ dz = xdx + ydy +
a
2
(dx + dy ) + 1
2
{2(x − y)2 − a 2 }(dx − dy)
a  2
2 a 
= xdx + ydy + (dx + dy ) + 1  ( x − y ) −  (dx − dy )
2 2  2 

Integrating on both sides, we have

Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)12

  2   2  
x2 y2 a 1 x − y 2 a  a
2
  (x − y )2 − a   + b
z= + + (x + y ) +  (x − y ) −  − log (x − y ) +
2 2 2 2 2  2  4  2  
   
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.10.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

method: z = px + qy + p 2 + q 2

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f ≡ z − px − qy − p 2 − q 2 = 0 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ =− = = =
−p+p − q + q − p(− x − 2p ) − q(− y − 2q ) − (− x − 2p ) (− y − 2q )
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ =− = = =
0 0 p(x + 2p ) + q(y + 2q ) (x + 2p ) − (y + 2q )
From first two members, we get dp = 0 and dq = 0.
Integrating, we obtain p = a and q = b.
Putting in (i), we get

z = ax + by + a 2 + b 2 ,
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.11.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

(
method: z 2 p 2 z 2 + q 2 = 1)
(
Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is z 2 p 2 z 2 + q 2 = 1 . )
Here f ≡ p 2 z 4 + q 2 z 2 − 1 = 0 .
Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
( 2 3
0 + p. 4p z + 2q z 2
) q(4p z2 3 2
+ 2q z ) (
− p 2pz 4
)− q(2qz )
2
− 2pz 4
− 2qz 2
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)13

dp dq
Taking first two members, we have = .
p q
Integrating on both sides, we obtain log p = log q + log a ⇒ p = aq .

(
Putting p = aq in z 2 p 2 z 2 + q 2 = 1 , we get )
1 1
q2 = ⇒q=
2
(
z a z +1 2 2
) (
z a 2z2 + 1 )
a
∴ p = aq ⇒ p = .
(
z a z +1 2 2
)
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

∴ dz =
a
dx +
1
( )
dy ⇒ z a 2 z 2 + 1 dz = adx + dy
(
z a 2z 2 + 1 ) (
z a 2z 2 + 1 )
Integrating on both sides, we get
1
3a 2
(a 2 2
z +1 ) 3/ 2
= ax + y + b

( ) 3
⇒ a 2 z 2 + 1 = 9a 4 (ax + y + b )2 , Ans.
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.12.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

method: p 2 + q 2 − 2px − 2qy + 1 = 0 .

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f ≡ p 2 + q 2 − 2px − 2qy + 1 = 0 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = =
− 2p − 2q − p(2p − 2x ) − q(2q − 2 y ) − (2p − 2x ) − (2q − 2 y )
Taking the first two members, we have
dp dq
= ⇒ log p = log q + log a ⇒ p = aq .
p q
Putting in (i), we get
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)14

( )
a 2 q 2 + q 2 − 2aqx − 2qy + 1 = 0 ⇒ a 2 + 1 q 2 − 2(ax + y )q + 1 = 0

2(ax + y ) + {4(ax + y )2 − 4(a 2 + 1)}

⇒q=
2(a 2 + 1)

(ax + y) + {(ax + y ) − (a + 1)} 2 2

⇒q= . (Taking the positive sign only)
(a 2
+1 )
a (ax + y ) +

{(ax + y) − (a + 1)}
2 2

and p = aq = 
a2 +1
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

(ax + y ) + {(ax + y )2 − (a 2 + 1)}

∴ dz = (adx + dy)
(a 2 + 1)
Putting ax + y = t , so that adx + dy = dt , we have, a 2 + 1 dz =  t +

( ) {t − (a
2 2
)}
+ 1  dt .

Integrating on both sides, we get

t2 t a2 +1 
( 2
a +1 z = +
2 2
) { ( 2
t − a +1 −
2
2
log t +

)} {t − (a
2 2
)}
+ 1  + b , where t = ax + y ,

which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.13.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

method: p = (qy + z )2 .

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f ≡ − p + (qy + z )2 = 0 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
2p(qy + z ) 4q(qy + z ) (− p )(− 1) − q.2(qy + z ).y − (− 1) − 2 y(qy + z )
Taking first and fifth members, we have
dp dy a
+ = 0 ⇒ log p + log y = log a ⇒ p = .
p y y
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)15

a a a z
∴ From (i), we obtain = (qy + z )2 ⇒   = qy + z ⇒ q = − .
3 / 2
y y y y

∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

a  a z a
∴ dz = dx +  − dy ⇒ ydz + zdy = adx + dy .
y  3 / 2 y  y
 y 
Integrating on both sides, we get
yz = ax + 2 (ay ) + b ,
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.14.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

method: px + qy = z(1 + pq )1 / 2 .

Sol.: Given non-linear partial differential equation is f ≡ px + qy − z(1 + pq )1 / 2 = 0 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq
⇒ = = ........
p − p(1 + pq )1 / 2 q − q(1 + pq )1 / 2
Taking the first two members, we have
dp dq
= ⇒ log p = log q + log a ⇒ p = aq .
p q
Putting in (i), we have

(
aqx + qy = z 1 + aq 2 ) 1/ 2
(
⇒ q 2 (ax + y )2 = z 2 1 + aq 2 )
2 z2 z az
q = ⇒q= ⇒p= .
(ax + y ) 2
− az 2
{(ax + y) 2
− az 2 } {(ax + y) 2
− az 2 }
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

∴ dz =
(azdx + zdy) ⇒ dz = adx + dy
{(ax + y)2 − az2 } z {(ax + y)2 − az 2 }
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)16

Putting ax + y = a u , we get

dz
=
a du
⇒
du 1
= (u 2
− z2 . )
z {(au 2
− az 2
)} dz z

Again put, u = vz ,

so that v + z
dv 1
=
dz z
(v z 2 2
)
− z2 ⇒ v + z
dv
dz
= (v 2
−1)
⇒z
dv
= (v − 1) − v ⇒ dzz =
2 dv
dz (v − 1) − v
2

⇒
dz
z
=− { (v − 1) + v}dv .
2

Integrating on both sides, we get

2
v
log z = − 
2
(v 2 − 1) − 12 logv + (v 2 − 1) − v2 + b
⇒ log z +
v2 v
+
2 2
(v 2 1
)
− 1 − log v +
2
{ (v − 1)}= b , where v = uz = axz +ay .
2

which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.15.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equations by Charpit’s

( )
method: x 2 − y 2 pq − xy p 2 − q 2 − 1 = 0 . ( )
( )
Sol.: Here f ≡ x 2 − y 2 pq − xy p 2 − q 2 − 1 = 0 . ( ) (i)
Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dx
⇒ = =
2pqx − y p − q ( 2 2
) − 2 ypq − x p − q ( 2 2
) − (x 2
)
− y 2 q + 2pxy
dy
= = ..........
(
− x 2 − y 2 p − 2qxy )
Using x, y, p, q as multipliers, we have
xdp + ydq + pdx + qdy
Each fraction = ∴ (xdp + pdx ) + (qdy + ydq ) = 0 .
0
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)17

a − qy
Integrating, we get px + qy = a ⇒ p = .
x
∴ From (i), we have

 a − qy   (a − qy )2 
(x 2
− y2 
 x 
) q − xy 2
− q 2
 −1 = 0
 x 

⇒
a − qy 2
x
{( )
x − y 2 q − (a − qy )y + xyq 2 − 1 = 0 }
⇒ (
a − qy 2
x
)
x q − ay + xyq 2 − 1 = 0

⇒ (a − qy )(x q − ay ) + x 2 2
yq 2 − x = 0

⇒ ax 2 q − a 2 y − x 2 yq 2 + ay 2 q + x 2 yq 2 − x = 0

(
⇒ qa x 2 + y 2 = a 2 y + x )
a2y + x
⇒q=
(
a x 2 + y2 )
∴p =
1
 a −
(
a 2y + x y 
 =
a 2x − y
.
)
x  (
a x 2 + y 2  a x 2 + y 2 ) ( )
∂z ∂z
Since we know that dz = dx + dy = pdx + qdy .
∂x ∂y

dz =
(a 2
) ( )
x − y dx + a 2 y + x dy
⇒ dz = a
(xdx + ydy ) + xdy − ydx
a (x + y )
2 2
x 2 + y2 (
a x 2 + y2 )
Integrating on both sides, we have

z=
a
2
( 1 y
log x 2 + y 2 + tan −1 + b ,
a x
)
which is the required complete solution involving two arbitrary constants a and b.
Q.No.16.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s
method: yz − p(xy + q ) − qy = 0 or pxy + pq + qy = yz .
Sol.: Here yz − p(xy + q ) − qy = 0 . (i)
Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)18

dp dq dz dx dy
= = = = .
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
Here = py , = xy + q , = px + q − z , = p+q, = −y .
∂x ∂p ∂y ∂q ∂z
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = = .
py + p(− y) px + q − z + q(− y ) − [p(xy + q ) + q(p + y )] − (xy + q ) − (p + q )
From 1st and 2nd member, we obtain
dp dq
= ⇒ dp = 0 ⇒ p = a .
0 px + q − z − qy
Now from (i), pxy + pq + qy − yz = 0
yz − axy y(z − ax ) y(z − ax )
⇒ axy + (a + y )q − yz = 0 ⇒ q = = ⇒q= .
a+y a+y a+y
y(z − ax )
Now consider dz = pdx + qdy = adx + dy
a+y
y(z − ax )a
⇒ dz − adx = dy (ii)
a+y
Put z − ax = t , dz − adx = dtd
yt a + y−a  a 
∴ (ii) reduces to dt = dy = dy = 1 − dy
a+y a+y  a + y
Integrating both sides, we get
1 1
∫ t
dt = ∫ dy − a ∫
a+y
dy + constant (= log c)

⇒ log t = y − a log(a + y) + log c [t = z − ax ]

⇒ log(z − ax ) = y − a log(a + y) + log c , is the required solution.

( )
This solution can also be written as (z − ax ) y + a 2 = be y .
Q.No.17.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: q + xp = p 2 .

Sol.: Here q + xp = p 2 . (i)

Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)19

Let f ( x, y, z, p, q) = q + xp − p 2
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
Here = p, = x − 2p = 0, = 1, = 0.
∂x ∂p ∂y ∂q ∂z
Charpit’s auxiliary equations are
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
+p +q −p −q − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
dp dq dz dx dy
⇒ = = = =
p + 0 0 + q × 0 − [p(x − 2p ) + q ] − x + 2p − 1
From 1st and 5th members
dp p p
= −dy ⇒ log p = − y + log a ⇒ log = − y ⇒ = e − y ⇒ p = ae − y
p a a

Also from (i), q + xp = p 2 ⇒ q + axe − y = a 2 xe −2 y ⇒ q = a 2 e −2 y − axe − y .

(
Now consider dz = pdx + qdy = ae − y dx + a 2 e −2 y − axe − y dy )
( )
dz = a e − y dx − xdy + a 2 e −2 y dy

( )
Integrating on both sides, we obtain z = a ∫ d e − y x + a 2 ∫ e −2 y dy + c

a 2 − 2y
⇒ z = axe − y − e + c , is the required solution.
2
Q.No.18.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

( )
method: p p 2 + 1 + (b − z )q = 0 .

Sol.: Let f ( x , y, z, p, q ) = p 3 + p + bq − zq = 0
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
Here = 0, = 3p 2 + 1 , = 0, = b−z, = −q .
∂x ∂p ∂y ∂q ∂z
Consider Charpit’s Auxiliary equations
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f  ∂f ∂f  ∂f ∂f
+p +q −  p + q  − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z  ∂p ∂q  ∂p ∂q

dp dq
⇒ = = .....etc
− pq − q 2
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)20

dp dq
From 1st and 2nd members, = .
p q
Integrating on both sides, we get
log p = log q + log c ⇒ p = cq .

Now from (i) p 3 + p + (b − z)q = 0 ⇒ c 3 q 3 + cq + (b − z )q = 0

z−c−b z−c−b
⇒ c 3q 2 + c + b − z = 0 ⇒ q 2 = 3
⇒q= .
c c. c
1 1
Now consider dz = pdx + qdy = z − c − b . dx + 3/ 2
. z − c − bdy
c c
1 y
⇒ (z − c − b )−1 / 2 dz = + 3/ 2
dy .
c c
Integrating on both sides, we get
−1 / 2 1 1
∫ (a − c − b ) dz = c
∫ dx +
c 3/ 2 ∫ dy + a

x y
⇒ 2 z−c−b = + 3/ 2
+ a , is the required solution.
c c
Q.No.19.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: 1 + p 2 = qz .

Sol.: Let f ( x, y, z, p, q) = 1 + p 2 − qz = 0
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f
Here = 0, = 2p , = 0, = −z , = −q .
∂x ∂p ∂y ∂q ∂z
Consider Charpit’s Auxiliary equations
dp dq dz dx dy
= = = =
∂f ∂f ∂f ∂f  ∂f ∂f  ∂f ∂f
+p +q −  p + q  − −
∂x ∂z ∂y ∂z  ∂p ∂q  ∂p ∂q

dp dq
⇒ = = .....etc
− pq − q 2

dp dq
From 1st and 2nd members, = .
p q
Integrating on both sides, we get
log p = log q + log c ⇒ p = cq .
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)21

z ± z 2 − 4c 2
Now from (i) p 2 + 1 − qz = 0 ⇒ c 2 q 2 − qz = 0 ⇒ q = .
2c 2
Now consider
1  1
 z ± z − 4c dx + 2  z ± z − 4c dy
2 2 2 2
dz = pdx + qdy =
2c   2c  
dz 1 1
⇒ = dx + 2
z ± z 2 − 4c 2 2c 2c dy

1 z m z 2 − 4c 2 1 1
⇒ . dz = dx + 2 dy .
z ± z 2 − 4c 2 z m z 2 − 4c 2 2c 2c
Integrating on both sides, we get
 z m z 2 − 4c 2 dz
 
∫

2
 =
∫
1
dx + ∫
1
dy + b [(A + B)(A − B) = A 2
− B2 ]
4c 2c 2c 2

z2  z 2   1 
±  z − 4c2 − 2c2 log z + z 2 − 4c 2  = 4c 2  x + 2 y + b  = 2cx + 2 y + d ,
1
⇒
2 2    2c 2c 

where d = 4c 2 b ,

 x a2 
Q ∫ x 2 − a 2 dx = x2 − a2 − log x 2 − a 2 
 2 2 

z2  z 2 
⇒ ±  z − 4c2 − 2c2 log z + z 2 − 4c 2  = 2cx + 2 y + d , is the required solution.
2 2  

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Home Assignments
Q.No.1.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: 16p 2 z 2 + 9q 2 z 2 + 4z 2 − 4 = 0 .
Hint:
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)22

dp dq − dx − dy − dz
= = = =
32p 3 z + 18pq 2 z + 8pz 32p 2 qz + 18q 3 z + 8qz 32pz 2 + 18qz 2 32p 2 z 2 + 18q 2 z 2
x−a
4zdp + 0.dq + 1.dx + 0.dy + 4pdz = 0 , x + 4pz = a , p = − ,
4z

2 1
q= 1 − z 2 − (x − a )2 .
3z 4

Ans.:
(x − a )2 + (y − b )2 + z2 = 1.
4 9
4
Q.No.2.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

( )
method: p 1 + q 2 + (b − z )q = 0 .
dp dq dz dx dy
Hint: = = = = ,
pq q 2 3pq 2 + p + (b − z )q q 2 + 1 − z + b + 2pq

(i) (ii)q = pc , Sub q = cz − b − 1 .

Ans.: 2 [c(z − b ) − 1] = x + cy + a ; a, c are arbitrary constants.

Q.No.3.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: q − px − q 2 = 0 .
1
Hint: q = a , p = m x ± x 2 + 4a  .

2 

x2 1 x 
Ans.: z = − ±  x 2 + 4a + 2a log x + x 2 + 4a  + ay + b .
4 2 2  
Q.No.4.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: yzp 2 − q = 0 .

Ans.: z 2 = 2ax + a 2 y 2 + b .
Q.No.5.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: 2(pq + py + qx ) + x 2 + y 2 = 0 .

Ans.: 2z = ax − x 2 + ay − y 2 +
1
2
(x − y ) {(x − y)2 + a 2 }.
Partial Differential Equations: Charpit’s Method Prepared by: Dr. Sunil, NIT Hamirpur (HP)23

a2
+
2 3/ 2
log 

{2(x − y )} + {2(x − y)2 + a 2 }+ b
Q.No.6.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s

method: q = 3p 2 .

Ans.: z = ax + 3x 2 y + b .
Q.No.7.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s
method: z = pq .
1
Ans.: 2 z = ax + y+ b.
a
Q.No.8.: Solve the following non-linear partial differential equation by Charpit’s
method: zpq = p + q .

 y
Ans.: z 2 = 2(a + 1) x +  + b .
 a
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