Diffusion Equation Homework: Show Formula (8) Makes Sense for 0 < t < 1/(4ak)

In summary, the conversation discusses the solution to a diffusion equation and how it is valid for certain values of t. The equation (8) for the solution involves a continuous function, P(x), and the integral of this function must converge for the solution to make sense. The conversation concludes that for the integral to converge, 0 < t < 1/(4ak) must be true.
  • #1
Dassinia
144
0

Homework Statement


Hello, I don't understand the solution of an exercise

Let P(x) be a continuous function such that |P(x)|≤Ceax² .
Show that formula (8) for the solution of the diffusion equation makes sense for 0 < t < 1/(4ak), but not necessarily for larger t.

Homework Equations


Equation (8) refers to
u(x,t)=1/√(4*pi*k*t) ∫ e-(x-y)²/4ktP(y) dy

The Attempt at a Solution


The solution just says that
upload_2016-2-24_20-21-14.png


I don't understand how they conclude ? I don't see why we have 0 < t < 1/(4ak)

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Consider the sign of the ##y^2## term in the exponent. What has to be true for the integral to converge?
 
  • #3
vela said:
Consider the sign of the ##y^2## term in the exponent. What has to be true for the integral to converge?
I see, thanks !
 

1. What is the diffusion equation used for in science?

The diffusion equation is a mathematical model used to describe the process of diffusion, which is the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. It is commonly used in fields such as chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering.

2. How is the diffusion equation derived?

The diffusion equation is derived from Fick's laws of diffusion, which state that the rate of diffusion is proportional to the concentration gradient. By applying this principle to a small volume element, the equation can be derived using calculus and the concepts of mass conservation and continuity.

3. What does the variable "a" represent in the diffusion equation?

In the diffusion equation, "a" represents the diffusion coefficient, which is a measure of how easily a substance can diffuse through a medium. It is dependent on factors such as temperature, pressure, and the properties of the diffusing substance.

4. Why is the diffusion equation useful in studying diffusion?

The diffusion equation allows scientists to mathematically model and predict the behavior of diffusing substances, such as the rate and direction of diffusion. This can be helpful in understanding and predicting processes such as heat transfer, chemical reactions, and biological processes.

5. How can the diffusion equation be applied to real-world situations?

The diffusion equation can be applied in various fields, including environmental science (e.g. modeling air pollution), materials science (e.g. predicting the diffusion of molecules in a solid), and biology (e.g. studying the diffusion of nutrients and waste products in cells). It is a versatile tool for understanding and analyzing diffusion processes in the natural world.

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