How to solve for this differential Equations Analytically

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the differential equations analytically, specifically the equations dvy/dt = - (k/m) * vy - g and dy/dt = vy. The initial conditions are clarified as vy(0) = vo*sin(theta) and y(0) = yo. The equations are identified as linear with constant coefficients, allowing for straightforward solutions. The recommended approach involves solving the homogeneous part first, followed by integrating to find the function y as a function of time.

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  • Understanding of differential equations, specifically linear equations with constant coefficients.
  • Familiarity with initial value problems in the context of differential equations.
  • Knowledge of separation of variables technique for solving differential equations.
  • Basic integration skills to derive solutions from differential equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of solving linear differential equations with constant coefficients.
  • Learn about initial value problems and their significance in differential equations.
  • Explore the separation of variables technique in greater detail.
  • Practice integrating functions derived from differential equations to solidify understanding.
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Marwanx
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Hello,

Could you please help me to solve the differential equations analytically?

dvy/dt = - (k/m) * vy - g

dy/dt = vy

vy = vo*sin(theta) = vy, y = yo
 
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Marwanx said:
Hello,

Could you please help me to solve the differential equations analytically?

dvy/dt = - (k/m) * vy - g

dy/dt = vy

vy = vo*sin(theta) = vy, y = yo
Are these last equations "intial values"- that is, values at t= 0?
If so, you should have written "vy(0)= vo*sin(theta)" and "y(0)= yo".

Since these are linear equations with constant coefficients, it should be easy to solve them. In fact, these are only "partially coupled". That is, the first equation involves only vy so you can immediately solve it. Write it as
[tex]\frac{dvy}{dt}= -(k/m)y -g[/tex]
a linear equation of order 1 with constant coefficients. You can solve the "homogeneous"part first:
[tex]\frac{dvy}{dt}= -(k/m)vy[/tex]
That's easy- that's a "separable" equation. After you have found the general solultion to that, just add a solution to the entire equation. I recommend trying something of the form vy= A, a constant. Put that into the equation and solve for A. Then add A to the solution to the homogeneous equation.

After you have found vy as a function of t, just put it into dy/dt= vy and integrate dy= vy dt to find y.
 

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