Differential Equations lesson today

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the differential equation for the position x as a function of time for an object experiencing a net force of -kmv². The equation V(t) = v₀/(1 + ktv₀) is provided, and the correct approach to integrate dx = v₀ dt/(1 + ktv₀) is emphasized. Participants clarify that the integration should be performed by rearranging terms to isolate variables, leading to the formulation of x(t). Kenneth provides a general method for integrating similar equations by rearranging them into the form f(u) du = g(t) dt.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic calculus concepts, specifically integration.
  • Familiarity with differential equations and their applications.
  • Knowledge of Newton's laws of motion and forces.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions involving variables.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study integration techniques in calculus, focusing on variable separation.
  • Explore applications of differential equations in physics, particularly in motion problems.
  • Learn about Newton's second law and its implications for forces and motion.
  • Investigate advanced integration methods, such as substitution and partial fractions.
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Students in physics and mathematics, particularly those studying calculus and differential equations, as well as educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods in these subjects.

mystro
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Given the following equation:

[tex]V(t) = \frac{v_{0}}{1+ktv_{0}}[/tex]

find the position x as a function of time for an object of mass m, located at x = 0 and moving with velocity Voi (where i is the unit vector i) at time t = 0 and thereafter experiening a net force -kmv^2i

I'm guessing I need to integrate that function however seeing as we've only started integration today in calculus and htis was assigned in physics, I'm not quite sure as to how to approach the problem.

as far as I can see
[tex]\frac{dx}{dt} = \frac{v_{0}}{1+ktv_{0}}[/tex]

in which case

[tex]({1+ktv_{o}}) dx = {v_{0}}dt[/tex]

but I'm not sure as to how to integrate the left and the right side of the function

any advice would be appreciated :)
 
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mystro said:
[tex]({1+ktv_{o}}) dx = {v_{0}}dt[/tex]

This is not correct. It should be

[tex]dx = \frac{v_0 dt}{1+ktv_0}[/tex].

You should gather those [tex]t[/tex] dependence term with the same side as [tex]dt[/tex] so that you could integrate with respect to [tex]t[/tex].

Next, integrate LHS from [tex]x=0[/tex] to [tex]x[/tex] and RHS from [tex]t=0[/tex] to [tex]t[/tex]. You will obtain a function of the position [tex]x(t)[/tex].


Kenneth
 
More generally if you have something like

[tex]\frac{f(u)}{g(t)} = \frac{dt}{du}[/tex]

then to integrate you'll want to bring it into the form

[tex]f(u) du = g(t)dt[/tex]

(sometimes, instead of the above form, you'll have [tex]\frac{g(t)}{f(u)} = \frac{dt}{du}[/tex]. To integrate, you'll have to rewrite it as [tex]\frac{dt}{g(t)} = \frac{du}{f(u)}[/tex].)
 

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