How Does Exponential Decay Relate to Velocity in Differential Equations?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a differential equation describing the motion of a body, specifically focusing on the relationship between exponential decay and velocity. The original poster presents a problem involving the equation dV(t)/dt = 0.6 - 3V(t) and seeks clarification on the initial acceleration and the form of the speed function over time.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the nature of the differential equation and its separability. Questions arise about the meaning and application of separable equations, as well as the derivation of the speed function from the given equation. There is also a query regarding the presence of the exponential function in the answer options.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing insights into solving separable differential equations and suggesting alternative approaches. There is a recognition of potential discrepancies in the original equation and the proposed answers, leading to further exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original poster may not be expected to solve the differential equation fully, and they suggest testing the provided answer options against the motion equation. There is also mention of the initial condition that the body was at rest at t = 0, which is relevant to determining the initial acceleration.

konichiwa2x
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The motion of a body is given by the equation dV(t)/dt = 0.6 - 3V(t)
where V(t) is the speed (in m/s) at time t (in second). If the body was at rest at t = 0

1) What is the magnitude of the inital acceleration?
2) The speed of the body varies with time as

(A) [tex](1 - e^-^3^t)[/tex]
(B) [tex]2(1 - e^-^3^t)[/tex]
(C) [tex]\frac{2}{3}(1 - e^\frac{-3t}{2})[/tex]
(D) [tex]\frac{2}{3}(1 - e^\frac{-3t}{3})[/tex]

(B) is the correct answer for Q(2) . But how do you arrive at it? And how did they manage to get a 'e' in the answer?

Please help.
 
Last edited:
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Please show what you've tried.

You're dealing with a separable differential equation, do you know how to solve one?
 
what is a separable equation? I know basic calculus. but i have no clue on how to arrive at the answer to this question,
 
I googled for "separable differential equation" and found a decent looking text:
http://www.ugrad.math.ubc.ca/coursedoc/math101/notes/moreApps/separable.html

Applying the above to your problem:

[tex]\frac{dV(t)}{dt} = 0.6 - 3V(t)[/tex]

[tex]dV(t) = (0.6 - 3V(t))dt[/tex]

[tex]\frac{dV(t)}{0.6 - 3V(t)} = dt[/tex]

[tex]\int_{V_0}^{V}\frac{dV(t)}{0.6 - 3V(t)} = \int_{t_0}^t dt[/tex]

(You could also use indefinite integral, and solve for the C with the information given in the problem ie. "body was at rest at t = 0")Can you manage the rest?PS. There's something wrong with the equation or the correct answer. With the given equation you should arrive at:
[tex]0.2(1-e^{-3t})[/tex]

To get the given answer (B), the original equation should be:
[tex]\frac{dV(t)}{dt} = 6 - 3V(t)[/tex]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
If you do not know how to solve differential equations, and presumbably aren't expected to here, sSince you are given 4 possible functions, work the other way. Plug each into the equation of motion and see which works. ([itex]\frac{dV}{dt}= 0.6- 3V[/itex] won't work with any of them- as said, it must be 6- 3V.)

As for part A, that's easy. Just evaluate [itex]\frac{dV}{dt}= 0.6- 3V[/itex] at t= 0. (Of course, you are told V(0).)
 
[tex]\int_{V_0}^{V}\frac{dV(t)}{0.6 - 3V(t)} = \int_{t_0}^t dt[/tex]

(You could also use indefinite integral, and solve for the C with the information given in the problem ie. "body was at rest at t = 0")

I am not very sure on how to procede from here.(I have just started learning calculus last week). Anyway should I use
[tex]\int uv =u \int v - \int \frac{(du)}{(dx)}\int v[/tex] rule?
 
Last edited:
konichiwa2x said:
I am not very sure on how to procede from here.(I have just started learning calculus last week).
Here's a formula that should help you:

[tex]\int \frac{dx}{x} = \ln |x| + C[/tex]
 

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