Solving Linear Diet Model Problem: Step-by-Step Guide

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a linear diet problem involving a differential equation. The original poster is attempting to solve this equation but is encountering difficulties, particularly with a negative value inside a natural logarithm, which raises questions about their interpretation of the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster describes their attempts to solve the differential equation and expresses uncertainty about their interpretation, particularly regarding the logarithmic result. Other participants question the definitions used, such as the designation of initial weight.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the original poster's concerns, with some providing feedback and suggesting edits based on previous comments. There is a collaborative atmosphere as participants share their own methods and results, although no consensus has been reached on the interpretation of the problem.

Contextual Notes

The original poster has referenced a PDF containing their work, indicating that there may be additional details or constraints not fully discussed in the thread. The discussion also hints at potential misinterpretations of mathematical concepts related to the problem.

mlowery
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I am working on solving a linear diet problem. I am given a differential equation. The problem basically requires me to solve the D.E., then plug 'n chug. I have gone over the solution to the D.E. over and over again. A fellow calculus student has also looked over the math and cannot find the error. Quite possibly there is no error and I am misinterpretting something. I end up with a negative inside of a natural logarithm, but I cannot find a way to get it out. Additionally, I have tried simply using the absolute value of the log, but I don't think this is correct.

I have put the question along with my work into a PDF file located http://mlowery.t35.com/Special_Project_Weight_Loss.pdf"

If anyone could point out my error/misinterpretation, I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks,
Mitchell
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Why did you call k the initial weight? The initial weight is w(0). (Assuming the initial time is t = 0)
 
Well my new answer seems more logical :)
Thank you so much Hurkyl.
 
I presume you editted your answer based on what Hurkyl said. I solved the d.e. using a different method but got exactly the answer you did.
Good work!
 
Yes, I did edit my answer based off of Hurkyl's advice. Thank you HallsofIvy for checking it as well.

Mitchell
 

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