How Does Energy Density Change with Scale Factor in Cosmology?

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The discussion focuses on how to derive the relationship between energy density (ε) and the scale factor (a) in cosmology using the fluid equation and the equation of state. The initial equation is rearranged to show the relationship between the rate of change of energy density and the scale factor. Participants suggest eliminating time-dependence by transforming the equation into a differential form. The next step involves integrating both sides to find ε as a function of a. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in solving the differential equation to reach the desired form of ε.
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Homework Statement



The fluid equation in cosmology is given as:

\dot{\epsilon} + 3*(\dot{a}/a)*(\epsilon+P) = 0

Where \epsilon is the energy density and a(t) is a scale factor.

Using the equation of state, P = w*\epsilon, show how \epsilon change with a(t).

Homework Equations



\dot{\epsilon} + 3*(\dot{a}/a)*(\epsilon+P) = 0
P = w*\epsilon

The Attempt at a Solution



I can solve for the equation to the point where I re-arrange it to look like this:

\dot{\epsilon}/\epsilon = -3*(1+w)*(\dot{a}/a)

I do not know how to proceed from here. I know that this equation is supposed to end up like this,

\epsilon<sub>w</sub>(a) = \epsilon<sub>w,0</sub>*a-3*(1+w)

but I do not know how to get to this point. Can someone assist me please?
 
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can someone take a look at this? I'm pretty sure its a simple operation that I'm failing to realize.
 
bump?
 
You have your equation
\frac{\dot\epsilon}{\epsilon} = -3(w+1)\frac{\dot a}{a}
From here you can eliminate the time-dependence
\frac{d\epsilon}{\epsilon} = -3(w+1)\frac{da}{a}
and this is a differential equation involving just \epsilon and a you can solve by integrating both sides
 
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