Differential Equations - Population Dynamics

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a differential equation modeling fish population dynamics, specifically focusing on the effects of harvesting on the population. The equation is given as P'(t)=(b-kP)P-hP, where parameters include birthrate, deathrate, and harvesting rate. Participants are tasked with finding the general solution under different conditions related to the harvesting rate.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses difficulty in setting up the problem for certain cases and seeks guidance. Some participants attempt to manipulate the differential equation into a more integrable form and discuss integration techniques, including partial fractions.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing algebraic manipulations and integration attempts. There is a mix of approaches being explored, and while some guidance has been offered regarding integration methods, there is no explicit consensus on the correctness of the solutions presented.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates a lack of confidence in their understanding of differential equations, which may influence the discussion. The problem is framed within the constraints of a homework assignment, implying that complete solutions should not be provided.

hawks32
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1. The problem statement
The DE governing a fish pop. P(t) with harvesting proportional to the population is given by:
P'(t)=(b-kP)P-hP
where b>0 is birthrate, kP is deathrate, where k>0, and h is the harvesting rate. Model assumes that the death rate per individual is proportional to the pop. size. An equilibrium point for the DE is a value of P so that P'(t)=0.

Find general solution of the DE, when..
a) h>b
b) h=b
c) h<b

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm having problems figuring out how to set up parts a) and c). I'm horrible at DE, so if anyone could help point me in the right direction, it would be greatly appreciated.
 
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P'(t)=(b-kP)P-hP
P'(t)=bP-kP2-hP
P'(t)= (b-h)P-kP2

P'(t)= ((b-h)-kP)P

P'(t)= dP/dt

so put it in the form

f(P) dP= f(t) dt

then integrate both sides.
 
okay, i worked the integral of dp/dt = ((b-h)-kP)P out as...



1/(b-h) * ln(p/b-h-kP) + C = t

is that correct?
 
Umm you have a [tex]P^2[/tex] in there. You should try partial fractions.
 
I did use partial fractions.

1/((b-h)-kP)P dp Let a = b-h

integral of 1/(a-kP)P = integral of A/a-kP + B/P

Solved for A & B, A = k/a, B = 1/a

So integral (k/a)/(a-kP) + (1/a)/p

end up with -(1/a)ln(a-kP) + (1/a)lnP
==> 1/a ln(P/(a-kP)) + C

sub back a = b-h

1/(b-h) * ln(p/(b-h-kP)) + C

Did I do something wrong?
 

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