Retarding force acting on a particle

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the motion of a particle subjected to a retarding force defined by F = be^(av), where b and a are constants and v represents velocity. The governing equation, F = ma, leads to the differential equation dv/dt = b*e^(av). The solution derived is v(t) = (1/a)ln(1/(abt/m + e^(-av))), which incorporates initial conditions to find the constant of integration. Participants emphasized the importance of integrating the force equation correctly to derive the velocity function over time.

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Homework Statement


A particle of mass m moving along a straight line is acted on by a retarding force F=be^(av) where b and a are constants and v is the velocity. At t=0 it is moving with velocity v(0) . Find the velocity at later times.


Homework Equations


F=ma=m(dv/dt)


The Attempt at a Solution


I tried taking the integral of the force equation to solve for v from dv/dt but I'm not sure where to go from there. The answer in the book is v(t)=(1/a)ln(1/(abt/m+e^(-av))
 
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Hi vballgurl154, welcome to PF.
Unless we see your calculations, we are not able to point out your mistakes.
Now F = dv/dt = b*e^(av)
So dv/(b*e^av) = dt.
So 1/b*Intg(e^-av) = Intg(dt) + C
Find the value of C by applying the initial conditions.
 
thank you! i figured it out :)
 

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