1st Order Differential; bit confused.

Yes, the value of c can be found by using the given initial condition v(0) = 0 and solving for c. In summary, the differential equation given models the velocity of a falling raindrop through mist, and solving it results in the equation v=\frac{g}{4}(1+t)-2+(2-\frac{g}{4})(1+t)^{-3}. The value of c can be found using the initial condition v(0) = 0.
  • #1
Gregg
459
0

Homework Statement



A raindrop falls from rest through mist. Its velocity vms−1 vertically downward, at time t seconds after it starts to fall is modeled by the differential equation

[itex] (1+t)\frac{dv}{dt} + 3v = (1+t)g-6 [/itex]

Solve the differential equation to show that

[itex]v=\frac{g}{4}(1+t)-2+(2-\frac{g}{4})(1+t)^{-3}[/itex]

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



[itex] (1+t)\frac{dv}{dt} + 3v = (1+t)g-6 [/itex]

[itex] \frac{dv}{dt} + \frac{3v}{1+t} = g-\frac{6}{(1+t)} [/itex]


Let I be the integration factor

[itex] I = e^{\int{p(x)}dx} [/itex]
[itex] p(x)=\frac{3}{1+t} [/itex]
[itex] I = (1+t)^3 [/itex]

[itex](1+t)^3\frac{dv}{dt} + 3v (1+t)^2 = g(1+t)^3-6(1+t)^2[/itex]

[itex](1+t)^3 v = \int g(1+t)^3-6(1+t)^2 dt [/itex]

[itex](1+t)^3 v = \frac{g}{4} (1+t)^4 - \frac{6}{3}(1+t)^3 + c[/itex]

[itex]v = \frac{g}{4} (1+t) - 2 + \frac{c}{(1+t)^3}[/itex]

Why is [itex]c=2-\frac{g}{4}[/itex]

EDIT: don't worry now, it's the value of V when t = 0. Oops !
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Assuming: all is correct.

Use this initial condition
v(0) = 0
and substitute into your final equation.

Edit: Didn't see the edit
 

1. What is a 1st order differential equation?

A 1st order differential equation is an equation that involves a function and its first derivative. It represents the relationship between the rate of change of a quantity and the quantity itself.

2. How do you solve a 1st order differential equation?

There are various methods to solve a 1st order differential equation, such as separation of variables, integrating factor, and substitution. The method used depends on the specific form of the equation and the techniques that the person solving the equation is comfortable with.

3. What is the role of initial conditions in solving a 1st order differential equation?

Initial conditions are necessary to solve a 1st order differential equation because they provide specific values for the function and its derivative at a given point. These conditions help to determine the particular solution to the equation.

4. How is a 1st order differential equation used in science?

1st order differential equations are commonly used in various fields of science, such as physics, engineering, and biology. They are used to model and describe the behavior of systems that involve change over time, such as motion, growth, and decay.

5. Can 1st order differential equations be solved analytically?

Yes, some 1st order differential equations can be solved analytically, meaning that an explicit formula can be found for the solution. However, not all 1st order differential equations can be solved analytically, and in such cases, numerical methods are used to approximate the solution.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
193
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
135
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
559
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
310
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
551
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
253
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
92
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
549
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
692
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
209
Back
Top