Escaping to Infinity: Solving a Separable Differential Equation

In summary, Using separation of variables, it can be determined that the solution for y(t) will escape to infinity in finite time.
  • #1
lylos
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0

Homework Statement


Using separation of variables determine if the solution escapes to infinity in finite time or infinite time?

[tex]y'(t)=1+\frac{y(t)}{2}[/tex]
[tex]y(0)=.5[/tex]

Homework Equations


Knowing how to do separation of variables.

The Attempt at a Solution


Here is my attempt, but I get stuck...
[tex]y'(t)=1+\frac{y(t)}{2}[/tex]
[tex]y'(t)-\frac{y(t)}{2}=1[/tex]
[tex]\int_0^t{y'(x)-\frac{y(x)}{2}dx}=\int_0^t{1dx}[/tex]
The next step I'm not sure of...
[tex](y(t)-y(0))-(\frac{y(t)^2}{4}-\frac{y(0)^2}{4})=t[/tex]
[tex]y(t)-\frac{y(t)^2}{4}=t+y(0)-\frac{y(0)^2}{4}[/tex]
Now solving for [tex]y(t)[/tex] becomes a problem if the above step is correct... I'm sure I'm doing something wrong.
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Sorry about that... I'm learning DiffEq through Mathematica and needless to say, it's poop.

Anyway, I figured out how to do it.

[tex]y'(t)=1+\frac{y(t)}{2}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{dy}{dt}=\frac{2+y(t)}{2}[/tex]
[tex]dy=\frac{(2+y(t))dt}{2}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{dy}{y(t)+2}=\frac{dt}{2}[/tex]
[tex]\int{\frac{dy}{y(t)+2}}=\int{\frac{dt}{2}[/tex]
[tex]\ln{(y(t)+2)}=\frac{t}{2}+C[/tex]
[tex]y(t)+2=Ce^{t/2}[/tex]
[tex]y(t)=Ce^{t/2}-2[/tex]
[tex]y(0)=.5=Ce^{0/2}-2[/tex]
[tex]C=2.5[/tex]
[tex]y(t)=2.5e^{t/2}-2[/tex]
 

1. What is "Separation of Variables"?

"Separation of Variables" is a mathematical technique used to solve differential equations. It involves separating a multi-variable equation into simpler equations with single variables, making it easier to solve.

2. How does "Separation of Variables" work?

The technique involves isolating the variables on different sides of the equation. This is usually done by dividing both sides of the equation by a single variable. Once the variables are separated, each equation can be solved individually, and then the solutions can be combined to find the general solution.

3. What types of equations can be solved using "Separation of Variables"?

"Separation of Variables" can be used to solve ordinary differential equations with two or more variables, such as first-order and second-order equations. It is also commonly used to solve partial differential equations.

4. What are the benefits of using "Separation of Variables"?

"Separation of Variables" allows for the solution of complicated differential equations by breaking them down into simpler equations. It also allows for the use of known techniques to solve each individual equation, making the overall solution more manageable.

5. Are there any limitations to using "Separation of Variables"?

While "Separation of Variables" is a useful technique, it can only be applied to a limited number of differential equations. It is not a universal solution method and may not work for all types of equations. Additionally, the solutions obtained using this technique may not always be valid for the entire domain of the original equation.

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