Should ρ, c, and k Be Included in the Heat Equation Solution?

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The discussion centers on the inclusion of density (ρ), specific heat (c), and thermal conductivity (k) in the heat equation solution. A user presents their solution to the ordinary differential equation (ODE) and derives a function f(t) that describes temperature over time. Another participant confirms the correctness of the solution but raises a question about whether ρ, c, and k should be included in the equation or if they can be assumed to be equal to one for simplification. The conversation highlights the importance of these parameters in accurately modeling heat transfer. Ultimately, the need for clarity on the assumptions regarding these variables is emphasized.
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I thus only solved the ODE -problem.
 
Show your working, and it will be easier to check whether you are correct or not.
 
cristo said:
Show your working, and it will be easier to check whether you are correct or not.

OK, you got it:

\frac{ \partial{u} }{ \partial{t} } = \frac{df}{dt} \sin(\frac{m \pi x}{L})

\frac{ \partial{^2 u} }{ \partial{x^2} } = f(t) \left( \frac{-m^2 \pi ^2 }{L^2} \right) \sin(\frac{m \pi x}{L})
Therefore

<br /> f(t) =\mbox{exp} \left( - \frac{m^2 \pi ^2 \kappa t}{L^2} \right) <br />Conclusion:
<br /> u(x,t)= u_0 + \mbox{exp} \left( - \frac{m^2 \pi ^2 \kappa t}{L^2} \right) \cdot \sin(\frac{m \pi x}{L})
 
Looks good, I'm just wondering one thing.

Should ρ, c, and k be in there somewhere, or do we assume units such that those are all =1?
 
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