Solving the Differential Equation: $\frac{d}{dt} \frac{t}{(t-1)^2}$

In summary, the problem involves taking the derivative of t/(t-1)^2 without using the chain rule. The correct solution involves using the quotient rule, which the student initially had trouble with.
  • #1
QuarkCharmer
1,051
3

Homework Statement


d/dt t/(t-1)^2

Homework Equations


No Chain Rule.

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex] \frac{d}{dt} \frac{t}{(t-1)^2} [/tex]
[tex]\frac{t\frac{d}{dt}(t-1)^2 - (t-1)^2 \frac{d}{dt}t}{(t-1)^4}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{t\frac{d}{dt}(t^2-2t+1) - 1(t-1)^2}{(t-1)^4}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{t(2t-2)-(t-1)^2}{(t-1)^4}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{2t^2-2t-t^2+2t-1}{(t-1)^4}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{(t+1)(t-1)}{(t-1)(t-1)^3}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{(t+1)}{(t-1)^3}[/tex]

The book shows the solution being negative. I can't figure out where I am going wrong here.
 
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  • #2
I think you have a problem at the 2nd line of your attempt. You should first take the derivative of the above term when taking the derivatives of fractions.

Should be like this:
[tex]\frac{(t-1)^2 \frac{d}{dt}t- t\frac{d}{dt}(t-1)^2}{(t-1)^4}[/tex]
 
  • #3
Ahh, I see. I'm doing the quotient rule wrong then.

Thanks!
 

1. What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is a mathematical equation that relates a function with its derivatives. It is used to describe the relationship between the rate of change of a variable and the variable itself.

2. How do you solve a differential equation?

To solve a differential equation, you need to find the function that satisfies the equation. This can be done by using various methods such as separation of variables, substitution, or using an integrating factor.

3. What is the specific differential equation, $\frac{d}{dt} \frac{t}{(t-1)^2}$, used for?

This specific differential equation is used to model the rate of change of a population over time.

4. What is the importance of solving differential equations in science?

Differential equations are used in many scientific fields such as physics, chemistry, and biology to model and understand complex systems. They help scientists make predictions and analyze data in a mathematical framework.

5. What are some real-life applications of solving differential equations?

Differential equations have numerous real-life applications, such as predicting the growth of a population, modeling the spread of diseases, understanding chemical reactions, and analyzing the behavior of electric circuits.

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