How Is Newton's Law of Cooling Derived?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Newton's Law of Cooling is mathematically derived from the principle that the rate of change of an object's temperature (dT/dt) is directly proportional to the difference between the object's temperature (T) and the surrounding temperature (Ts). This relationship can be expressed as dT/dt = -k(T - Ts), where k is a constant that represents the proportionality factor. The negative sign indicates that the temperature of the object decreases as it approaches the surrounding temperature. This derivation is essential for understanding thermal dynamics in various scientific applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential equations
  • Familiarity with the concept of proportionality in mathematics
  • Basic knowledge of thermodynamics
  • Experience with mathematical modeling techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of differential equations in physics
  • Explore the concept of proportionality and its applications in mathematical modeling
  • Learn about thermal dynamics and heat transfer principles
  • Investigate real-world applications of Newton's Law of Cooling in various fields
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or engineering, educators teaching thermodynamics, and professionals involved in thermal analysis or heat transfer applications will benefit from this discussion.

Junior Newton
Messages
9
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Mathematically prove how Newton's Law of Cooling is derived.

Homework Equations


Newton’s Law of Cooling states that the rate of change of a temperature of an object is directly proportional to the difference between its own temperature and the temperature of its surroundings (Smith, 2010). Therefore, from this information it can be seen that the following relationship can be interpreted.

dT/dt ∝ T-Ts

Where T = temperature of the object and t = time.

The Attempt at a Solution



not sure how the k comes into it?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What does the term "directly proportional" mean in mathematical terms? That should answer your question.
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 42 ·
2
Replies
42
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
7K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
6K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K