Finding dV/dt in V=4*L^3 at t=0.1s

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    Differentiation
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the rate of change of volume (dV/dt) given the volume formula V=4*L^3 and the rate of change of length (dL/dt=10*t) at a specific time (t=0.1 seconds). The participants explore the application of the chain rule and the implications of missing initial conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest using the chain rule to express dV/dt as dV/dL multiplied by dL/dt.
  • One participant calculates dV/dt as 120*L^2 but expresses uncertainty about obtaining a numerical solution without knowing L.
  • Another participant notes that without a specific length at a given time, a numerical solution cannot be determined.
  • There is a discussion about whether the answer can be expressed solely in terms of L, with some arguing that dV/dt should not be given in terms of L alone.
  • One participant reflects on the relationship between changes in V and time, suggesting that the change in V over the change in time could be simplified but acknowledges missing initial conditions.
  • Clarifications are made regarding the application of the chain rule, with some participants questioning whether the correct derivatives have been calculated.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the chain rule is necessary for solving the problem, but there is disagreement about whether a numerical solution can be obtained without additional information about L. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the final expression for dV/dt.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations due to the absence of initial length values, which affects the ability to derive a numerical solution. The discussion also highlights potential confusion regarding the differentiation process and the application of the chain rule.

Tymick
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I'm having some trouble with the following question, it was on a test previously and I haven't been able to figure it out :/

Let V=4*L^3 cm^3, where dl/dt=10*t cm/s. Find dV/dt at t=0.1 second
 
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Since V is a function of L.

What you can do is use the chain rule and say that

[tex]\frac{dV}{dt}=\frac{dV}{dL} \times \frac{dL}{dt}[/tex]
 
Right, following the chain rule I do get dv/dt=120*L^2, I tried before to get L in terms of t, via integration but of course that gives 5t^2+C whereas C would pose as a problem since I've no way of obtaining it, so I can't get a numerical solution I just get a solution in terms of L...
 
Tymick said:
Right, following the chain rule I do get dv/dt=120*L^2, I tried before to get L in terms of t, via integration but of course that gives 5t^2+C whereas C would pose as a problem since I've no way of obtaining it, so I can't get a numerical solution I just get a solution in terms of L...

[tex]\frac{dV}{dt}=12L^2[/tex]



You don't need L in terms of t when they tell you that [itex]\frac{dL}{dt}=10t[/itex]
 
rock.freak667 said:
[tex]\frac{dV}{dt}=12L^2[/tex]
You don't need L in terms of t when they tell you that [itex]\frac{dL}{dt}=10t[/itex]

so then this question doesn't have a numerical solution, only one in terms of L?
 
Is that all the data presented in the question? you don't have the initial length or any length at a particular time?
 
rock.freak667 said:
Is that all the data presented in the question? you don't have the initial length or any length at a particular time?

that's about it, my first post states out the entire question, no initial values, at all...and thanks by the way.
 
Well without a length at any particular time, you can't find a numerical solution.
 
Tymick said:
I'm having some trouble with the following question, it was on a test previously and I haven't been able to figure it out :/

Let V=4*L^3 cm^3, where dl/dt=10*t cm/s. Find dV/dt at t=0.1 second

I would think that as you are given dl/dt and you can work out dv/dl and you are looking for dv/dt

dv/dl [12L^3] dL = 12L^2 dl/dt = 10t

dv/dl x dl/dt... the dl's cancel to leave dv/dt

Wouldn't that be the chain rule?

Perhaps u'v + v'u
or in this case v't + t'v

NO WAIT! So much simpler.

Look at it as...

the change in v over the change in time. The change in V is simply 12L^3 , so dv/dt = 12L^3 / dt ( it would seem something is missing as one is not sure the intial time, I would have to assume time began at zero and so dt would be 0.1 s,
thus dv/dt = 12L^3/0.1 = 120L^3 (I think).

eta: oh I missed he t=0.1 s
 
Last edited:
  • #10
rock.freak667 said:
[tex]\frac{dV}{dt}=12L^2[/tex]



You don't need L in terms of t when they tell you that [itex]\frac{dL}{dt}=10t[/itex]

Isn't dv/dt the differential of v with respect to t? Then surely the answer shouldn't be given in 'L' Also you have worked out dv/dl not dv/dt


I think the chain rule is needed.
 
  • #11
Doctoress SD said:
Isn't dv/dt the differential of v with respect to t? Then surely the answer shouldn't be given in 'L' Also you have worked out dv/dl not dv/dt


I think the chain rule is needed.

Yes that was a typo on my part.
 

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