How Do You Solve an Annuity Differential Equation?

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The discussion centers on solving the annuity differential equation given by dS/dt = rS + d with the initial condition S(0) = S_0. The user initially struggles with a negative term in their derivation and seeks clarification on their mistake. They eventually realize that incorporating the initial condition correctly resolves the issue, leading to the correct solution S(t) = S_0e^{rt} + (d/r)(e^{rt} - 1). Another participant suggests a simpler approach by redefining the variable to eliminate the negative term. The conversation emphasizes the importance of verifying solutions against initial conditions and the differential equation itself.
_N3WTON_
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Homework Statement


Solve the annuity problem:
\frac{dS}{dt} = rS + d
S(0) = S_0

Homework Equations


Integrating factor method equation
Future value of an annuity equation (this should be the final answer):
S(t) = S_0e^{rt} + \frac{d}{r}(e^{rt} - 1)

The Attempt at a Solution


Ok, I am getting quite close to doing this derivation correctly. However, I keep ending up with a negative that should not be there.
First, I set:
p(x) = -r
Then:
u(x) = e^{-rt}
This means that I need to take the integral of:
\frac{d}{dt} (e^{-rt}S(t)) = de^{-rt}
After taking the integral of both sides I end up with:
(e^{-rt} * S(t)) = - \frac{d}{r} e^{-rt} + C
Therefore:
S(t) = - \frac{d}{r} + Ce^{rt}
At this point I am not sure what to do because I believe that the negative symbol should not be there. If somebody could point out where my mistake is I would greatly appreciate it.
 
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_N3WTON_ said:
At this point I am not sure what to do because I believe that the negative symbol should not be there...

Why? Your answer seems to agree with ##
S(t) = S_0e^{rt} + \frac{d}{r}(e^{rt} - 1)
## if ##C=S_0+\frac{d}{r}##.
 
ZetaOfThree said:
Why? Your answer seems to agree with ##
S(t) = S_0e^{rt} + \frac{d}{r}(e^{rt} - 1)
## if ##C=S_0+\frac{d}{r}##.
ok I see it now, I guess I am just an idiot XD ...sorry for the waste of time, I forgot to do the initial value portion of the problem
 
_N3WTON_,
It's a good habit to get into to check a solution you get. If the solution you get 1) satisfies the initial condition, and 2) satisfies the differential equation, you're golden. You don't need us to verify that your solution is correct.
 
_N3WTON_ said:
ok I see it now, I guess I am just an idiot XD ...sorry for the waste of time, I forgot to do the initial value portion of the problem

An easier way is to note that if ##V = S + (d/r)## then ##dV/dt = dS/dt = r V##, so ##V(t) = V_0 e^{rt}##, where ##V_0 = S_0 + d/r##.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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