If dx/dt=kx, and if x=2 when t=0 and x=6 when t=1, then k=

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SUMMARY

The differential equation $\frac{dx}{dt}=kx$ is solved using the method of separation of variables, leading to the conclusion that the constant k equals $\ln(3)$. Given the initial conditions where x=2 at t=0 and x=6 at t=1, the integration process reveals that the integration constant C is $\ln(2)$. The final expression confirms that k is derived from the logarithmic difference between the two x values at the specified t values.

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karush
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If $\frac{dx}{dt}=kx$, and if $x=2$ when $t=0$ and $x=6$ when $t=1$,
then $k=$

or rewriten as

$\frac{dx}{kx} = dt$

I saw this posted on another forum but didn't understand how this was integrated.. the ans appears to $$ln 3$$
 
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We have the separable ODE:

$$\frac{dx}{dt}=kx$$

$$\frac{1}{x}\,dx=k\,dt$$

$$\ln|x|=kt+C$$

Now, we know the point:

$$(t,x)=(0,2)$$

Hence:

$$C=\ln(2)$$

Thus:

$$\ln|x|=kt+\ln(2)$$

We also know the point:

$$(t,x)=(1,6)$$

Hence:

$$k=\ln(6)-\ln(2)=\ln(3)$$
 

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