Rate-in rate-out Differential Equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a rate-in rate-out differential equation related to the concentration of salt in a tank over time. The differential equation is formulated as \(\frac{dQ}{dt} + \frac{Q}{100 + t} = \frac{1}{5}\), where \(Q\) represents the concentration of salt. An integrating factor, \(\theta(t) = 100 + t\), is used to solve the equation, leading to the expression \(Q(100 + t) = 20t + \frac{t^2}{10} + C\). The constant \(C\) is determined to be zero, resulting in the final expression for \(Q\) at \(t = 100\) minutes, which represents the amount of salt in the tank.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential equations, specifically first-order linear equations.
  • Familiarity with integrating factors in solving differential equations.
  • Knowledge of initial value problems and how to apply them.
  • Basic calculus, including integration techniques.
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  • Explore initial value problems in differential equations.
  • Learn about applications of differential equations in real-world scenarios.
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Homework Statement



Skjermbilde_2012_04_22_kl_10_55_54_AM.png


The Attempt at a Solution


I let Q be the concentration of salt in the tank at any time t. Thus, the differential equation should be \frac{dQ}{dt} = (\frac{1}{10})(2) - \frac{Q(1)}{100 + t} = \frac{1}{5} - \frac{Q}{100 + t}. Rearranging terms,

\frac{dQ}{dt} + \frac{Q}{100 + t} = \frac{1}{5}. We construct an integrating factor: θ(t) = e^{\int \frac{1}{100 + t} dt} = e^{ln(100 + t)} = 100 + t. We introduce the integrating factor,

(Q(100 + t))' = 20 + \frac{t}{5} and integrate both sides to find Q(100 + t) = 20t + \frac{t^2}{10} + C. Thus,

Q = \frac{20t + \frac{t^2}{10} + C}{100 + t}. Given that Q(0) = 0, we can solve for C: Q(0) = 0 = \frac{20(0) + \frac{(0)^2}{10} + C}{100 + (0)} = \frac{C}{100} which implies that C must equal zero. Thus,

Q(100) = \frac{20t + \frac{t^2}{10}}{100 + t} = \frac{2000 + 1000}{200}

Have I done this correctly? I suppose my answer is more like the concentration after 100 minutes, but I'm worried because it seems like I don't have much simplifying to do, as the problem hints that I should. Suggestions?
 
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Looks good :smile:
And that is the amount of salt in the tank after 100 minutes, not the concentration. As for not simplifying it, that should be okay, unless you just want to plug in 100 for t and do absolutely no simplifying after that.
 

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