ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Inexact differential equation

Okay kiddo, let's talk about inexact differential equations!

Do you remember learning about regular differential equations? They are equations that involve solving for an unknown function and its derivatives, like "y' = 2x".

Well, sometimes things can get a little trickier when we're dealing with differential equations. Inexact differential equations are equations that can't be solved by finding the derivative of a function.

Think of it like a puzzle piece that looks like it should fit in a certain spot, but when you try to put it in, it just doesn't quite fit right. That's kind of what an inexact differential equation is like - it looks like it should work, but it just doesn't quite fit with the regular rules of differential equations.

But don't worry, there are still ways to solve inexact differential equations. One way is to use a different kind of equation, called an integrating factor, to "smooth out" the puzzle piece and make it fit.

So while inexact differential equations may seem tricky at first, with some special tools and techniques, we can still solve them and figure out what our unknown function is doing.