Characterisation of the Algebraic Properties of First Integrals of Scalar Ordinary Differential Equations of Maximal Symmetry

Abstract

We undertake a study of the first integrals of linearnth order scalar ordinary differential equations with maximal symmetry. We establish patterns for the first integrals associated with these equations. It is shown that second and third order equations are the pathological cases in the study of higher order differential equations. The equivalence of contact symmetries for third order equations to non-Cartan symmetries of second order equations is highlighted.