Differential equations- Pop Growth

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a differential equation related to population growth, specifically the equation dy/dt=(0.5+sin(t))y/5. The original poster seeks to determine the time t when the population has doubled.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to solve the differential equation to find a function predicting population over time. Questions arise regarding the initial population and whether it is necessary for solving the problem. There is also mention of integrating both sides of the equation and the form of the general solution.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on solving the differential equation and integrating it. There is an exploration of the implications of the initial population on the solution, with one participant suggesting that it may not be necessary for determining the time when the population doubles.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the linear nature of the ordinary differential equation and the implications of the doubling condition, as well as the potential lack of need for the initial population value in the solution process.

dm59
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dy/dt=(.5+sint)y/5 what is time t when the population has doubled?
 
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\frac{dy}{dt}=\frac{(.5+sint)y}{5} Well, you first need to solve this one, and come up with a function that predicts population at any point in time t. Do you know how to solve this diff, eq?

\frac{dy}{dt}=\frac{(.5+sint)y}{5}=>\frac{dy}{y}=\frac{1}{5}(.5+sint)dt

Now integrate on both sides, and solve for y. I guess Y=f(t) or sth like that.

SO there is another info. that you have been provided with, Y(t)=2Yo, where Yo is your initial population. Have you been provided with initial population?or with another info. on this problem?
 
sutupidmath said:
\frac{dy}{dt}=\frac{(.5+sint)y}{5} Well, you first need to solve this one, and come up with a function that predicts population at any point in time t. Do you know how to solve this diff, eq?

\frac{dy}{dt}=\frac{(.5+sint)y}{5}=>\frac{dy}{y}=\frac{1}{5}(.5+sint)dt

Now integrate on both sides, and solve for y. I guess Y=f(t) or sth like that.

SO there is another info. that you have been provided with, Y(t)=2Yo, where Yo is your initial population. Have you been provided with initial population?or with another info. on this problem?

You don't need the initial population. The ode is linear. But you do need to write down the solution, as stupidmath points out. The general solution will have the form C*f(t). So you just need to solve C*f(t)=2*C*f(0) for t. You don't need to know C. It cancels.
 
Got it!

Thank both of you so much for your help.
 

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