Differential equations help, modelling population

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a differential equations problem related to modeling population growth. The original poster presents a scenario where the population size at time t is studied, with initial conditions provided. The goal is to predict the population size after 24 hours and determine the time required for the population to increase tenfold.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply a model where the rate of population growth is proportional to the population size. They express their calculations and seek help to identify errors in their approach, particularly in calculating the growth constant k.
  • Some participants question the correctness of the original poster's calculations and suggest alternative formulations for k, indicating a potential misunderstanding of logarithmic manipulation.
  • Others point out a possible typographical error in the differential equation presented by the original poster, suggesting it should be proportional to the population rather than time.

Discussion Status

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information available for discussion. The original poster expresses confusion over their calculations and seeks clarification on specific steps in the modeling process.

tweety1234
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in a scientific study, the size , p of a population at t hours is being studied. Initially p = 560 and after 6 hours, p is found to be 1218. In a simple model of population growth, the rate of the population is taken to be proportional to the population at that time. Using this model predict.

a) the size of the population 24 hours after the start of the experiment.
b) how long it will take for the population to increase tenfold.

I keep getting the wrong answer, here's my working any help appreciated.


\frac{dp}{dt} = kt

\int \frac{1}{p} dp = \int k dt

ln (p) = kt +c

p = p_{0}e^{kt} p_{0} = 560 , t= 0

p = 560e^{kt}

1218 = 560e^{k6}

k = ln(\frac{1218}{3360})

so to find after 24 hours I would just put t = 42 into my formula, and get ;

p = 560e^{ln\frac{1218}{3360}24}

But when I solve this I get 4872, and the correct answer is 12532

What am I doing wrong?

Thank you.
 
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tweety1234 said:
in a scientific study, the size , p of a population at t hours is being studied. Initially p = 560 and after 6 hours, p is found to be 1218. In a simple model of population growth, the rate of the population is taken to be proportional to the population at that time. Using this model predict.

a) the size of the population 24 hours after the start of the experiment.
b) how long it will take for the population to increase tenfold.

I keep getting the wrong answer, here's my working any help appreciated. \frac{dp}{dt} = kt

\int \frac{1}{p} dp = \int k dt

ln (p) = kt +c

p = p_{0}e^{kt} p_{0} = 560 , t= 0

p = 560e^{kt}

Thank you.

Your calculation of k value is wrong.

6k = ln(\frac{1218}{560})

k = \frac{1}{6}ln(\frac{1218}{560})

Now find k.
 
rl.bhat said:
Your calculation of k value is wrong.

6k = ln(\frac{1218}{560})

k = \frac{1}{6}ln(\frac{1218}{560})

Now find k.

Thank you,

But that's what I have dont, is that not the same as multiplying the denominator by 6?
 
tweety1234 said:
Thank you,

But that's what I have dont, is that not the same as multiplying the denominator by 6?

No. Find the logarithm and divide it by 6 to get k.
 
Okay, thank you.

I get it now
 
tweety1234 said:
in a scientific study, the size , p of a population at t hours is being studied. Initially p = 560 and after 6 hours, p is found to be 1218. In a simple model of population growth, the rate of the population is taken to be proportional to the population at that time. Using this model predict.

a) the size of the population 24 hours after the start of the experiment.
b) how long it will take for the population to increase tenfold.

I keep getting the wrong answer, here's my working any help appreciated.


\frac{dp}{dt} = kt
Though not important there is a typo in your original equation. You clearly intended the equation to be
\frac{dp}{dt}= kp
not "= kt".

\int \frac{1}{p} dp = \int k dt

ln (p) = kt +c

p = p_{0}e^{kt} p_{0} = 560 , t= 0

p = 560e^{kt}

1218 = 560e^{k6}

k = ln(\frac{1218}{3360})

so to find after 24 hours I would just put t = 42 into my formula, and get ;

p = 560e^{ln\frac{1218}{3360}24}

But when I solve this I get 4872, and the correct answer is 12532

What am I doing wrong?

Thank you.
 

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