How to Solve Equations with Integrals Using FTC and Chain Rule?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation ∫^{b}_{a}f(s,t)g(s)ds=g(t) for the function f(s,t). Participants explore the potential use of the fundamental theorem of calculus (FTC) and the chain rule, considering the implications of the constants a and b, and the independence of the variables s and t.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest using the fundamental theorem of calculus and the chain rule to eliminate the integral expression, assuming s and t are independent.
  • Others argue that the constants a and b complicate the application of the FTC, as the function f(s,t) is unknown.
  • A participant proposes that a partial derivative can be defined in terms of f(s,t), which may lead to a useful expression.
  • There is a suggestion to derive a partial differential equation (PDE) from the relationship by considering the derivative of the right-hand side with respect to s.
  • One participant seeks clarification on the known and unknown elements of the equation, questioning whether g(t) or f(s,t) is the unknown function.
  • A later reply confirms that f(s,t) is unknown, while g(t) and g(s) are given, and seeks further elaboration on using the FTC and chain rule in this context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the applicability of the FTC due to the presence of constants a and b and the unknown nature of f(s,t). The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to take in solving the equation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the relationship involves two parameters, a and b, which may influence the functions being sought. The exact nature of how these parameters affect f(s,t) and g(t) is not fully clarified.

6.28318531
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Hi,

How would one go about solving equations like ∫^{b}_{a}f(s,t)g(s)ds=g(t),for f(s,t). Could we turn it into a differential equation somehow?

Thanks
 
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6.28318531 said:
Hi,

How would one go about solving equations like ∫^{b}_{a}f(s,t)g(s)ds=g(t),for f(s,t). Could we turn it into a differential equation somehow?

Thanks

Hey 2pi.

Have you tried first using the fundamental theorem of calculus and the chain rule to get rid of the integral expression (assuming s and t are unrelated and orthogonal)?
 
Yeah s and t are independent, but isn't the problem the fact that a and b are constants,and we don't know what f is, and as such the FTC doesn't really get us anywhere useful?
 
6.28318531 said:
Yeah s and t are independent, but isn't the problem the fact that a and b are constants,and we don't know what f is, and as such the FTC doesn't really get us anywhere useful?

You will get a definition for the partial derivative in terms of f(s,t) and from that, you should be able to get something useful.

Remember that the integral is done with respect to ds, so you can consider this partial derivative with respect to the fundamental theorem of calculus and through the chain rule, obtain a partial differential relationship for the integral relationship.

You also take the derivative of the RHS with respect to s (partial derivative) and from this you get 0 (since g(t) will be considered more or less a constant).

This means you will be left with an expression involving partial with respect to s involving the chain rule of f(s,t)g(s) and the RHS will be zero. This should give you a PDE.

More information for this kind of problem, look for integro-differential equations either on the internet or in textbooks.
 
6.28318531 said:
Hi,

How would one go about solving equations like ∫^{b}_{a}f(s,t)g(s)ds=g(t),for f(s,t). Could we turn it into a differential equation somehow?

Thanks

Would you mind make clear what is known and what is unknown in the equation.
Is the function g(t) known and then are you searching an unknown function f(s,t) consistent with the équation ?
Or, is the function f(s,t) known and then are you searching an unknown function g(t) consistent with the équation ?
Since there are two parameters a and b involved into the relationship, necesserally they will appear in the function that we are looking for.
So, if f(s,t) is unknown, then a and b will appear in g(t) and, as a matter of fact, the analytical expression of g(t) is g(a,b,t). Rigth or not ?
If g(t) is unknown, then a and b will appear in f(s,t) and, as a matter of fact, the analytical expression of f(s,t) is f(a,b,s,t). Rigth or not ?
 
@JJacquellin
Sorry I should have been a bit clearer, f(s,t) is unknown. We are given g(t) and g(s). So then f is actually f(a,b,s,t), as you said? I think I can see where this is going but would you mind elaborating on how we can use FTC and the chain rule. I am still not 100% sure.

Thanks
 

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