How to Solve K'(T) = k(M-K(t)) Using Given Values?

  • Thread starter chaotixmonjuish
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In summary, the conversation discusses an ODE modeling problem where the rate of change in total knowledge, K'(t), is proportional to what is not yet known, with M representing total knowledge and t representing time. Given the initial conditions K(0)=0 and K(2)=50, the question asks for the value of K(t) when 75% of the task is learned.
  • #1
chaotixmonjuish
287
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I'm not even sure how to start this question

K'(T)=k(M-K(t))
M=total knowledge

suppose that:
M=100
K(0)=0
and
K(2)=50

does this mean
k'(0)=k(100-0)
and
k'(2)=K(100-50)
 
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  • #2
This looks like one of those ODE modeling questions. I think you have to elaborate more on what K, k, T and t are. More specifically tell us which variables the aforementioned functions are of. And K'(T) is dK/dt or dK/dT ?
 
  • #3
K(t)is the total knowledge about how to perform at task at time t

K'(t) or the rate of change in K(t) is proportional to what we do not know yet or
K'(t)=k(M-K(t)) where M is total knowledge

it takes two years to learn 50% of the task, how long does it take to learn 75%
 
  • #4
Ok I take it that M is a constant and not a function of t and T and t are the same thing. k is also an unknown constant. So you have:

[tex]\frac{dK}{dt} = k(M-K)[/tex]

So this is a 1st order ODE. It's clearly separable. Solve it for K(t) and plug in the given values of K(0) and K(2) to solve for the constant of integration and k.
 

1. What is the meaning of K'(T)=k(M-K(t))?

The equation K'(T)=k(M-K(t)) is a mathematical model used to describe the growth or decay of a population over time. It is commonly known as the logistic growth equation and is used in various fields such as biology, economics, and sociology.

2. What do the variables in the equation represent?

K'(T) represents the rate of change of the population at a specific time (T). K(t) represents the current size of the population at time (t). M is the maximum capacity or carrying capacity of the population, and k is a constant that determines the rate of growth or decay.

3. How is this equation derived?

The logistic growth equation is derived from the simple growth model, which assumes that the population grows exponentially without any limitations. However, in reality, populations cannot grow indefinitely due to limited resources and competition. The logistic growth equation introduces the concept of carrying capacity (M), which limits the growth of the population.

4. Can this equation be applied to all populations?

No, the logistic growth equation is most suitable for populations that have a limited carrying capacity. It may not accurately represent the growth patterns of populations that do not have a carrying capacity, such as bacteria in a petri dish.

5. How is this equation used in scientific research?

The logistic growth equation is used in various fields of study, such as ecology, to model the growth of animal and plant populations. It is also used in economics to predict the growth of markets and the spread of diseases in epidemiology. Additionally, it is used in social sciences to study the growth of human populations and the adoption of new behaviors or technologies.

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