Solve ODE: Integrating Factor Solution w/ Mike's Query

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In summary, the conversation revolves around a solution for a past paper found on a website. The solution involves using an integrating factor, as explained by one of the participants. The conversation then delves into finding the correct solution, with one participant suggesting a more direct approach and the other finding a mistake in their previous solution. Ultimately, the correct solution is found to be \theta=Ce^{-t/\beta}+\theta_m.
  • #1
bsodmike
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Homework Statement



This is a solution detailed in a past paper,

http://stuff.bsodmike.com/sensors_pastpaper.png


Homework Equations


Utilise an integrating factor to solve as detailed by myself https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=283610".


The Attempt at a Solution



It can be said that,

[tex]\dfrac{d\theta}{dt}+\dfrac{\theta}{\beta}=\dfrac{\theta_m}{\beta}[/tex]

Hence, the solution by employing an integrating factor would yield,

[tex]e^{t/\beta}\theta=\dfrac{\theta_m}{\beta}\int{e^{t/\beta}\,dt}[/tex]

[tex]\theta=\dfrac{\theta_m}{\beta}+Ce^{-t/\beta}[/tex]

The problem is that I'm having the extra 'beta' term as shown above. Any ideas?

Thanks!
Mike
 
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  • #2
A more direct approach, solving the homogenous part:

[tex]\int{\dfrac{1}{\theta}\,d\theta}=\int{-\dfrac{1}{\beta}\,dt}[/tex]

[tex]ln(\theta)=-\dfrac{t}{\beta}+C[/tex]

[tex]\theta=e^{-t/\beta+C}[/tex]

Now, my memory here is fuzzy but [tex]e^{-t/\beta+C} = e^{-t/\beta}+e^C[/tex] ??
 
  • #3
Ah, another small blunder, of course!

Now, [tex]\int{e^{t/\beta}\,dt}=\beta e^{t/\beta}+C[/tex]. thus, the 'beta's cancel,

[tex]e^{t/\beta}\theta=\theta_m e^{t/\beta}+C[/tex]

Dividing by [tex]e^{t/\beta}[/tex], yields,

[tex]\theta=Ce^{-t/\beta}+\theta_m[/tex]
 

1. What is an ODE?

An ODE, or ordinary differential equation, is an equation that relates a function to its derivatives. It describes the relationship between a quantity and its rate of change.

2. What is an integrating factor?

An integrating factor is a function that can be multiplied to both sides of an ODE to make it easier to solve. It is used to transform a non-exact ODE into an exact one.

3. How do you solve ODE using an integrating factor?

To solve an ODE using an integrating factor, you must first identify the ODE as non-exact. Then, multiply both sides of the equation by the integrating factor, and use the product rule to simplify the left side. This will result in an exact ODE, which can be solved by integrating both sides and solving for the original function.

4. What is Mike's query in relation to solving ODE with an integrating factor?

Mike's query is a specific example of an ODE that can be solved using an integrating factor. It is not a commonly used term, but rather a hypothetical question posed to better understand the concept of solving ODEs with integrating factors.

5. Are there other methods for solving ODEs besides using an integrating factor?

Yes, there are other methods for solving ODEs, such as separation of variables, substitution, and power series. Each method is useful for different types of ODEs and can be used to solve problems that cannot be easily solved with an integrating factor.

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