Do I Need to Divide the Constant and Term in Separation of Variables?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the method of separation of variables in solving differential equations. The original poster is attempting to derive a general solution and is uncertain about the treatment of a constant term in their equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions whether to divide the constant and term by -5 in their equation. Some participants suggest the need for an initial condition to proceed further.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the implications of the initial condition and how it relates to the constant in the equation. Guidance has been offered regarding substituting values to find the constant.

Contextual Notes

The original poster is working towards a general solution and has an initial condition provided, which is part of the discussion. There is a focus on how to handle constants in the context of separation of variables.

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Im doing separation of variables now and I am stuck...ive come up to this stage

-5 ln 2-3i = t^2/2 + C

my problem is do i need to divide the C and t^2/2 by -5? or don't divide the C?

please help me..
thnks
 
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You need an initial condition.
 
sorry i don't get it...im trying to make the general solution...from the question i(0) = 12
 
So setting t=0 shows that -5ln|2-3*i(0)|=C=> -5ln|2-36|=C=>-5ln(34)=C, so substitute this into your equation.
 
ok thanks for the help
 

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