Help solving differential equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a differential equation related to a thermo assignment. Participants explore various methods for finding a solution, including analytical and numerical approaches, and consider the implications of the constants involved.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks assistance with a differential equation involving constants A, B, C, and D, and suggests using Matlab or other ODE software for a solution.
  • Another participant reformulates the equation and proposes that it resembles an integrating factor equation, inviting further exploration.
  • A different participant asserts that the ODE is linear and can be expressed as t=t(x), indicating that it relates to a Gauss hypergeometric function or a Beta function, and notes that x(t) may not have a finite elementary expression.
  • This participant also mentions that numerical methods are necessary for computing x(t), although some specific values of the constants might allow for an analytical expression.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the method of solving the differential equation, as participants propose different approaches and interpretations of the equation's nature.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the assumptions regarding the constants A, B, C, and D, nor the specific conditions under which analytical solutions may be possible.

timsea81
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Hello!
I am looking for someone's help solving a differential equation. In the attached image:

A, B, C, and D are all constants
x = x(t)

This is one step in the process for my thermo assignment. Using Matlab or some other ODE software would be an acceptable way to solve the problem if there is no easy way to do it by hand. Any help you could lend would be appreciated. Thanks.
 

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I would look at the differential equation in the following form:
[tex] C\frac{dt}{dx}+\frac{Dt}{x-B}=\frac{A}{x^{2}}[/tex]
This looks to be some kind of integrating factor equation (I could be wrong) but have a go.
 
Thanks, I'll go down that road in a minute but first I have another question that I will post as a separate question as it is unrelated.
 
Hi !

The ODE is linear and can be solved as t=t(x)
The function t(x) is related to a Gauss hypergeometric fonction, or alternatively a Beta function : attached document.
The function x(t) cannot be expressed with a finite number of elementary functions.
x(t) have to be compuded thanks to numerical methods (But, for some particular values of the constant coefficients, it could be expressed analytically).
 

Attachments

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