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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a differential equation involving a particle subjected to a velocity-dependent drag force, expressed as F = -b e^(cv). The participants are tasked with finding the speed v(t) as a function of time, given an initial speed v0 at t=0. The problem involves understanding the dynamics of the system and the mathematical manipulation of exponential functions within the context of Newton's second law.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to derive a differential equation from the force equation and express confusion about isolating the exponential term. Questions arise regarding the interpretation of the variables and the physical meaning of the constants involved. Some participants express uncertainty about how to manipulate the equation to separate variables for integration.

Discussion Status

There is ongoing exploration of the mathematical steps required to isolate the velocity variable from the exponential term. Some participants have made progress in expressing the differential equation and are seeking clarification on integration techniques and the necessity of constants of integration. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being considered, and guidance has been provided on separating variables.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention constraints related to their understanding of exponential equations and the specific requirements of the homework problem, including the need to express the solution in terms of given constants and initial conditions.

  • #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
 
  • #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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