If dy/dt = ky and k is a nonzero constant, y could be

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the differential equation dy/dt = ky, where k is a nonzero constant. Participants explore potential forms of the solution for y, considering various options provided in a multiple-choice format.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the integration of the equation and the implications of the constant k. There is uncertainty about how to derive the factor of 2 in the solution y = 2e^kt, with some suggesting that it relates to the general solution form.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided insights into the differentiation and integration processes involved. There is an ongoing exploration of how each proposed solution satisfies the original differential equation, with some participants questioning the validity of specific options while affirming that option b (2e^kt) satisfies the equation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the challenge of interpreting the multiple-choice options correctly and the need to verify each option against the differential equation. There is an acknowledgment of the assumptions regarding the constant k and its implications for the solutions.

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Homework Statement



If dy/dt = ky and k is a nonzero constant, than y could be

a. 2e^kty
b. 2e^kt
c. e^kt + 3
d. kty + 5
e. .5ky^2 + .5

Correct answer is b. 2e^kt

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I don't really know what I should be doing. I have a feeling I have to work backwards, therefore do the integral of ky? But if that is the case, I have no idea how e^kt is created through that integral. 2e^kt reminded me of Ce^kt, but that doesn't have anything to do with this problem either.
 
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Look at the derivative of e^kt and see how that relates to e^kt.
 
The 'correct' thing to do would be

dy/dt = ky

∫ dy/y = ∫ k dt


But since you have a multiple choice, you could quickly differentiate each one if you wanted to.
 
Hm.. this is what I got when I did ∫ dy/y = ∫ k dt

lny = kt
y = e^kt

Where does the 2 come from? I guessed it would have to be from a square, but when you do the integral of a number (since k is a nonzero constant) you multiply the constant with a variable with an exponent of 1, not 2.
 
lude1 said:
Hm.. this is what I got when I did ∫ dy/y = ∫ k dt

lny = kt
y = e^kt

Where does the 2 come from? I guessed it would have to be from a square, but when you do the integral of a number (since k is a nonzero constant) you multiply the constant with a variable with an exponent of 1, not 2.

you'd get

ln y = kt+A such that y=ekt+A=Bekt where B is a constant. So B can be any number, such as '2'.
 
Ah, I forgot about that. Thanks!
 
lude1 said:

Homework Statement



If dy/dt = ky and k is a nonzero constant, than y could be

a. 2e^kty
If this means y=-2e^(kty) then its derivative is dy/dt= 2ke^(kty)(ky+ kt(dy/dt)).
dy/dt(1- 2kt e^(kty)= 2k^y e^(kty). No, that differential equation is not satisfied.

b. 2e^kt
If y= 2e^(kt), then dy/dt= 2(ke^(kt))= k(2e^(kt))= ky and satisfies the equation.
(I am assuming the parentheses combine these as you wanted- that you did not intend 2(e^k)t.)

c. e^kt + 3
If y= e^(kt)+ 3, then y'= ke^(kt) which is not ky= k(e^(kt)+ 3)

d. kty + 5
If y= kty+ 5, then dy/dt= ky+ kt dy/dt so dy/dt(1- kt)= ky and dy/dt= (k/(1-kt) y. That does not satisfy the given equation.

e. .5ky^2 + .5
If y= .5y^2+ .5, then dy/dt= 1.0 y dy/dt so dy/dt(1- y)= 0. Either dy/dt= 0 or y= 1. That does not satisfy the given equation.

Correct answer is b. 2e^kt

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I don't really know what I should be doing. I have a feeling I have to work backwards, therefore do the integral of ky? But if that is the case, I have no idea how e^kt is created through that integral. 2e^kt reminded me of Ce^kt, but that doesn't have anything to do with this problem either.
 

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