Integration of separate variables

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a differential equation modeling the volume of liquid in a tank with a leak. Participants explore the formulation of the equation and the integration of separate variables in the context of fluid dynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a differential equation dv/dt = 80 - kv, questioning the integration of separate rates of gain and loss of liquid.
  • Another participant suggests that while it is possible to consider separate rates, an additional differential equation is necessary since the rate of loss depends on the volume, which complicates the integration.
  • A clarification is provided that DE stands for differential equation, indicating a need for understanding the terminology used in the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the approach to integrating the equations, as there are differing views on the necessity of additional equations to account for the dependency of the loss rate on the volume.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the complexity of integrating differential equations when variables are interdependent, but does not resolve the specific mathematical steps or assumptions involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in differential equations, fluid dynamics, or mathematical modeling may find this discussion relevant.

Milly
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Liquid is flowing into a small tank which has a leak. Initially the tank is empty and, t minutes later, the volume of liquid in the tank is V cm3 . The liquid is flowing into the tank at a constant rate of 80 cm3 per minute. Because of the leak, liquid is being lost from the tank at a rate which, at any instant, is equal to kV cm3 per minute where k is a positive constant.

The equation becomes dv/dt=80−kv but why can't I use dv(gain)/dt = 80 and dv(lost)/dt = kv intergrate both equation and minus V(lost) from V(gain) to get V ?
 
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Milly said:
Liquid is flowing into a small tank which has a leak. Initially the tank is empty and, t minutes later, the volume of liquid in the tank is V cm3 . The liquid is flowing into the tank at a constant rate of 80 cm3 per minute. Because of the leak, liquid is being lost from the tank at a rate which, at any instant, is equal to kV cm3 per minute where k is a positive constant.

The equation becomes dv/dt=80−kv but why can't I use dv(gain)/dt = 80 and dv(lost)/dt = kv intergrate both equation and minus V(lost) from V(gain) to get V ?

Hi Milly! :)

You could, but then you need another DE since your second DE depends on v, which is different from v(lost).

You would need the additional equation dv = dv(gain) - dv(lost) to complete the set of differential equations.
Then, when you make the proper substitutions, you'll get dv/dt=80−kv.
 
What is DE?
 
Milly said:
What is DE?

DE stands for differential equation.
 

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