Diff EQNot sure what method to use

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a differential equation arising from a fluids homework problem, specifically of the form A\frac{dh}{dt}+B\sqrt{h}+C=0, where A, B, and C are constants. The original poster is uncertain about the appropriate method to solve this equation and seeks guidance on how to approach it.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss whether the equation is separable and explore the possibility of using substitutions. There are attempts to clarify the process of manipulating the equation, particularly regarding dividing by terms and rearranging it for integration.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants providing guidance on how to rearrange the equation for separation. There is a recognition of different interpretations of the problem, and while some clarity has been offered, there is still uncertainty among participants about the steps involved.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express a lack of confidence in their algebra skills, indicating that they may not have recently practiced these foundational concepts. This suggests that the discussion is influenced by varying levels of familiarity with the mathematical techniques required to solve the differential equation.

Saladsamurai
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Homework Statement



In one of my fluids homeworks, I wound up with a DE of the form

[tex]A\frac{dh}{dt}+B\sqrt{h}+C=0[/tex]

where A, B, and C are known constants. Can I use the integrating factor on this if I divide thorough by the
leading coefficient A and put it in the form

[tex]\frac{dh}{dt}+\frac{B}{A}\sqrt{h}=-\frac{C}{A}[/tex]

?

I am just not sure how to approach this DE. Any hints are great :smile:
 
Last edited:
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This is seperable.
 
dx said:
This is seperable.

Okay. Is it separable as is? Because I don't see it? Perhaps a substitution is needed?
 
Yes, just divide by B√h + C, and multiply by dt. You will get

[tex]\frac{-A}{B\sqrt{h} + C}dh = dt[/tex]
 
Wow. I need to brush up on my math, because I still have no idea how you did that. I have no idea how to divide

[tex] A\frac{dh}{dt}+B\sqrt{h}+C=0[/tex]

by B√h + C

I wouldn't even know where to start. I am trying now. Do you do it term by term? I realize that this is just Algebra, but I guess mt Engineering classes
are veering away from all that goodness
 
[tex]A\frac{dh}{dt}+B\sqrt{h}+C=0[/tex]

[tex]B\sqrt{h}+C = -A\frac{dh}{dt}[/tex]

Dividing by B√h + C,

[tex]1 = \frac{-A}{B\sqrt{h}+C}\frac{dh}{dt}[/tex]

Multiplying by dt,

[tex]dt = \frac{-A}{B\sqrt{h} + C}dh[/tex]
 
dx said:
[tex]A\frac{dh}{dt}+B\sqrt{h}+C=0[/tex]

[tex]B\sqrt{h}+C = -A\frac{dh}{dt}[/tex]

Dividing by B√h + C,

[tex]1 = -A\frac{dh}{dt} \frac{1}{B\sqrt{h}+C}[/tex]

Multiplying by dt,

[tex]dt = \frac{-A}{B\sqrt{h} + C}dh[/tex]

Wow :blushing: I had to see it to believe it! Why can't I see these things?!
I can bang my head all effin' day trying to figure this stuff out and then wham! Some
one comes along and is like "hey, why don't you just do this?" and in 2 seconds they're done!

Thanks dx! I am going to go burn something down now :smile:
 

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