Find the current flowing through resistor

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The discussion focuses on determining the current flowing through a resistor in an RC circuit with a given voltage function. The user struggles with solving the differential equation derived from Kirchhoff’s voltage law, leading to confusion and an imaginary answer in their calculations. Suggestions include using the method of undetermined coefficients and leveraging the physics of RC circuits to guess the form of the current function. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding the equations and concepts involved, particularly regarding phase relationships in AC circuits. The conversation highlights the challenges of applying differential equation methods to this problem.
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Homework Statement



The power supply in the circuit shown has V(t) =
(120V)cos(ωt), where ω = 310 rad/s. Determine the current
flowing through the resistor at time t = 9.7 s, given R = 600 Ω,
C = 18 mF, and I(0) = 0 A. As a reminder, Kirkhoff’s voltage
law for this circuit (Eq. 8-1.3 in the book) reduces to:
dV/dt = R(dI/dt) + I/C

Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



I've tried this about ten times and can't seem to get the right answer:

I found dV/dt = -37200 Sin(wt) (i'll call it v' from now on)

Rearranging the equation to make it in standard form:

dI/dt + (1/RC)I = v'/R

P= 1/RC = .0926

Q=v'/R = -62 Sin(wt)

F = ∫p dt

So e^F = e^.0926 t
and e^-F = e^-.0926 t

This equation was given in class for solving this type of DE:

I = (e^-I)∫Q*e^F dt + c1*e^-F

When plug this into mathematica, it gives me an imaginary answer

Any ideas?
 
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Did you try using phasor diagrams?
 
I have no idea what that is. We were told to use only differential equation methods
 
OK - I guess you'll learn about phasor analysis after you experience the pain of having to use the integral approach.
$$\renewcommand{\tder}[1]{\frac{d #1}{dt}}

\tder{i}+\frac{1}{RC}i= -\frac{\omega V}{R}\sin\omega t$$

it looks like you tried using an integrating factor?
then you mention an equation "given in class" ... but you don't seem to understand it, so there is confusion. You should back up to where you do understand what is going on.

Have you tried the method of undetermined coefficients?

You could try guessing - it's usually less painful.
You could also have used your understanding of the physics of RC circuits to guide you in guessing i(t). The effect of the capacitor is to change the phase relationship between voltage and current ... so you'd guess a sine wave, different amplitude and phase but same frequency, as v(t). The main trouble is that you need a table of trig identities and it ends up the same as undetermined coefficients.
 
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