First-Order differential Equation

In summary, the solution for the first-order differential equation is given by [A] = (k`+ke^(k`+k)t)*[A]0/(k`+k). This is obtained by rewriting the equation and using an integrating factor. The equation is part of the solution for a chemical kinetics problem, where A represents the reactant, t is the time, and k and k` are the rate constants for the reaction A==B.
  • #1
sparkle123
175
0
d[A]/dt=-(k+k`)[A]+k`[A]0
The solution of this first-order differential equation is:
[A]= (k`+ke^(k`+k)t)*[A]0/(k`+k)

Could you please explain how you get from the first equation to the second? THANKS!

btw: if this helps, this is part of the solution for a chemical kinetics (rates/equilibrium) problem
so A is the reactant, t is the time, and k and k` are the rate constants for the reaction A==B
 
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  • #2
If I am reading it correctly, your DE is

[tex]\frac{dA}{dt}=-(k+k`)A+k'A_0[/tex]

Which can be rewritten as

[tex]\frac{dA}{dt}+(k+k`)A=k'A_0[/tex]

Since this is in the form

[tex]\frac{dA}{dt}+P(t)A= Q(t)[/tex]

an integrating factor 'u' is given by

[tex]u=e^{\int P(t) dt}[/tex]

see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Integrating_factor" for more info.
 
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  • #3
Thank you! :D
 

1. What is a first-order differential equation?

A first-order differential equation is an equation that involves an unknown function and its first derivative. It can be written in the form of dy/dx = f(x), where y is the function and x is the independent variable.

2. What is the difference between an ordinary and a partial first-order differential equation?

An ordinary first-order differential equation involves a single independent variable, while a partial first-order differential equation involves multiple independent variables. Ordinary differential equations can be solved using various methods, while partial differential equations require more advanced techniques.

3. What is the importance of first-order differential equations in science?

First-order differential equations are used to model many physical phenomena in science, such as population growth, radioactive decay, and fluid flow. They are also essential in engineering and economics for analyzing and predicting changes in systems over time.

4. How can first-order differential equations be solved?

There are several methods for solving first-order differential equations, including separation of variables, integrating factors, and substitution. The method used depends on the specific form of the equation and the initial conditions provided.

5. Can first-order differential equations be applied to real-world problems?

Yes, first-order differential equations are widely used in various fields to model and solve real-world problems. They provide a powerful tool for understanding and predicting the behavior of dynamic systems, making them an essential tool in scientific research and practical applications.

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