Need help solving simple Differential problem (help)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a differential equation related to a heat transfer problem. Participants explore methods for solving the equation in terms of y(x), which involves integrating factors and constants arising from integration.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a differential equation in heat transfer form and seeks assistance in solving it.
  • Another participant suggests a method involving the substitution f=dy/dx and the use of an integrating factor e^{zkx} to transform the equation.
  • The method proposed includes integrating both sides of the transformed equation to find f(x) and subsequently y(x).
  • Questions arise regarding the origin of the integration constant C3, with a later reply clarifying that it is an integration constant that can be determined using initial conditions.
  • There is mention of another constant, c4, that arises from the integration of f to find y.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree on the method of solving the differential equation but there is some confusion regarding the constants introduced during integration, indicating a lack of consensus on how to handle them.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the specifics of the integration constants or their determination, leaving some assumptions and conditions implicit.

Jennifer_88
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Hi,

I am working out a heat transfer problem but I've to solve the Differential equation in order to keep going on but it's been a long time since i did any Differential. your help will be appreciated.

the equation in heat transfer form is T^2+z*k*T=z(C1*x+C2)

or

d^2y/dx+z*k*dy/dx=z(C1*x+C2)

z & k are constants, the equation need to be solved in terms of y(x)
 
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if you set f=dy/dx then it becomes df/dx+zkf=z(c_1x+c_2). You multiply by the integrating factor e^{zkx} and get
(f(x)e^{zkx})'=ze^{zkx}(c_1x+c_2)

and by integrating both sides and solving for f(x) you ll get

f(x)=\frac{z\int c_1xe^{zkx}dx+ z\int c_2e^{zkx}dx+ c_3}{e^{zkx}}. You just have to compute the integrals which seem easy and get f(x). You then find y(x)=\int f(x)dx
 
where did C3 come from ?? thanks for the help
 
Jennifer_88 said:
where did C3 come from ?? thanks for the help
It is the integration constant. You can calculate by the initial condition for f(=dy/dx). You ll have another c4 constant from the integration of f to find y.
 

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