Modeling Applications and Diff EQs

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving the spread of a virus in a population of 1000, with an initial infected population of 250 and a constant rate of spread. The conversation presents a differential equation for this problem and solves it to obtain the final infected population as a function of time. The correct solution includes parentheses around both the fraction and the exponent of the exponential term.
  • #1
neshepard
67
0

Homework Statement


A certain virus spreads through an entire population of 1000. It is assumed that the virus spreads at a rate proportional to the product of the infected and the uninfected. k=.00005 and initial infected is 250. Write and solve the diff eq for this problem.


Homework Equations


I used dP/dt=kP(1-P/L) where P=infected population, L=1000 carrying capacity, k=constant



The Attempt at a Solution


dP/dt=.00005P(1-P/1000)
dP/P(1-P/1000)=.00005dt and integrate both sides to get
P(t)=1000/1+3e^-.00005t

Is this correct? Maybe I'm just tired, but looking at it seems weird somehow.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
It's correct up to some parentheses you left out.
 
  • #3
P(t)=1000/(1+3e^-.00005t) are these the parentheses you mean?

Thanks
 
  • #4
neshepard said:
P(t)=1000/(1+3e^-.00005t) are these the parentheses you mean?

Thanks

Almost, I'd put parenthesis around the exponent as well

P(t)=1000/(1+3e^(-.00005t))

It's much easier to read that way.
 
  • #5
Thanks. Staring to long at this.
 

1. What is the purpose of modeling applications and differential equations?

The purpose of modeling applications and differential equations is to describe real-world phenomena using mathematical equations. This allows scientists and researchers to make predictions and understand the behavior of complex systems.

2. What types of problems can be solved using modeling applications and differential equations?

Modeling applications and differential equations can be used to solve a wide range of problems, including population growth, chemical reactions, fluid mechanics, and electrical circuits.

3. How do you create a mathematical model for a real-world problem?

To create a mathematical model for a real-world problem, you first need to identify the key variables and their relationships in the system. These variables can then be represented using differential equations, which can then be solved to make predictions and understand the behavior of the system.

4. Can modeling applications and differential equations be used in other fields besides science and engineering?

Yes, modeling applications and differential equations can be used in fields such as economics, finance, and social sciences to study and predict complex systems and phenomena.

5. What are the limitations of modeling applications and differential equations?

Modeling applications and differential equations are limited by the assumptions and simplifications made in the model. Real-world systems are often much more complex and may not follow the exact equations used in the model. Additionally, some systems may have unpredictable or chaotic behavior that cannot be captured by differential equations.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
5K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
2K
Back
Top