How Can You Solve a Differential Equation Involving Exponential Drag Force?

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The discussion focuses on solving a differential equation involving a particle subjected to an exponential drag force, represented by the equation F = -b e^(cv). Participants express confusion about isolating the exponential term to derive the speed v(t) as a function of time. They discuss the application of Newton's second law, emphasizing the need to separate variables for integration. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding definite versus indefinite integrals, particularly in the context of integrating with bounds. Ultimately, the correct form for v(t) is derived, and participants seek further resources to strengthen their calculus skills.
  • #31
MichaelTam said:
So, using the post equation in 19, I got 2, but using the 25post ,I get 1.
View attachment 268528
I have no idea how you keep getting ##e^{-c v_0} = e^{-c v_t}##. Where does that come from?
What I wrote in post #21 was, suppose we allow a constant of integration, k:
##e^{-c v_0} - e^{-c v_t}=\frac {-b c t} m+k##
If we evaluate that at t=0 we get:
##e^{-c v_0} - e^{-c v_0}=0+k##
Look carefully at the left hand side. Everything cancels there, leaving zero, so k=0.
 
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  • #32
Your problem is that you do not understand the difference between a definite integral and an indefinite integral.
1. Definite integral
$$\int_{x_0}^x u~du=\frac{1}{2} \left. u^2 \right |_{x_0}^x=\frac{1}{2}x^2-\frac{1}{2}x_0^2.$$You just evaluate the antiderivative at the upper and lower limits and subtract the latter from the former.

2. Indefinite integral
$$\int u~du=\frac{1}{2} u^2 +k.$$There are no upper and lower limits; constant ##k## is a placeholder for the lower limit. In this particular problem you have a definite integral, you know the lower limit, therefore the placeholder is not needed or, as has already been shown, it must be zero.
 
  • #33
So, is my answer in the equation two is the simplest answer?
Why my answer in the equation 2 is still incorrect?
 
  • #34
Ops, I find my self have some typing error, the answer in the equation two is correct, thank you kuruman and haruspex!
 
  • #35
Are there any way to learn more calculus to get more strategy?
 
  • #36
MichaelTam said:
Are there any way to learn more calculus to get more strategy?
It looks like you need to reread integration basics, paying attention to bounds and to definite and indefinite integrals.
 
  • #37
I got v(t) = -1/c ln( e^(-c v_0) + bc/m t ).
 
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  • #38
ThEmptyTree said:
I got v(t) = -1/c ln( e^(-c v_0) + bc/m t ).
Good.
 
  • #39
MichaelTam said:
Homework Statement:: MIT pretest.
Relevant Equations:: 𝐅⃗=−𝑏𝑒^(𝑐𝑣)𝐢̂ , find v(t), by using differential equation of F=maHello, would you mind sharing what course this is? I am familiar with edx but can’t find it
 
  • #40
  • #42
This problem becomes more complex if we alter the initial condition of ##v_0## to be not parallel to x-axis but to have some other direction. For example if ##v_0## is in the y-axis then the differential equation becomes $$m\frac{dv_x}{dt}=-be^{c\sqrt{v_0^2+v_x^2}}$$ and who can solve this
 

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