Solving Linear ODE by Integration: What Steps Are Involved?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a linear ordinary differential equation (ODE) given by dx/dt = (2000 - 500x)/100. Participants are exploring the steps involved in finding an analytical solution through integration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to separate variables and integrate, with one expressing uncertainty about their approach. Others clarify the correct form of the equation and suggest methods for integration. Questions arise regarding the integration process, particularly about handling dx in the numerator.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing clarifications and exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance on integration techniques has been offered, but there is no explicit consensus on the solution yet.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes they are new to calculus and have not encountered this material before, which may influence their understanding of the problem.

schapman22
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Homework Statement



dx/dt = 2000-500x/100

Solve this linear ODE using integration. You should get a function of t, x(t). This is the "analytical solution". Use the differential equation above, separate the variables, and then integrate to find x(t). Find the integration constant and simplify your final result.

Homework Equations



dx/dt = 2000-500x/100

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried doing this but do no think its correct

dx-5x = 20dt then I would integrate that.
 
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schapman22 said:

Homework Statement



dx/dt = 2000-500x/100

Solve this linear ODE using integration. You should get a function of t, x(t). This is the "analytical solution". Use the differential equation above, separate the variables, and then integrate to find x(t). Find the integration constant and simplify your final result.

Homework Equations



dx/dt = 2000-500x/100

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried doing this but do no think its correct

dx-5x = 20dt then I would integrate that.

As written, you DE is dx/dt = 2000 - 5x, so letting y = x-400 we have dy/dt = -5y, which is easy to solve.

However, perhaps you meant dx/dt = (2000 - 500x)/100 = 20 - 5x. If that is what you meant, that is what you should have written. Use brackets.

RGV
 
Sorry it was supposed to be dx/dt = (2000-500x)/100
 
can you help me solve it?
 
(2000-500x)/100 = 20 - 5x, for one thing.

The ODE is separable.

[itex]\displaystyle\frac{dx}{20 - 5x}=dt\,.[/itex]

Now, integrate both sides.
 
how do I integrate with dx in the numerator?
 
schapman22 said:
how do I integrate with dx in the numerator?

The nature of you questions has me wondering: what is your situation? Are you in a course that is far above your background level? Are you using a textbook that does not have any of this material in it? You are asking introductory questions that you should have seen discussed before. You can't learn the material from an on-line homework assistance site.

RGV
 
I am taking my first calculus course and haven't come across this before
 
schapman22 said:
how do I integrate with dx in the numerator?

Why wouldn't you integrate with dx in the numerator?

[tex]\int \frac{1}{20-5x}dx = \int dt[/tex]

[itex]\frac{dx}{20-5x} = \frac{1}{20-5x}dx[/itex] after all right?
 
  • #10
schapman22 said:
how do I integrate with dx in the numerator?

[itex]\displaystyle\int\frac{dx}{20 - 5x}=dt[/itex]

Let u = 20 - 5x . → du =-5dx
 
  • #11
We just started the integral so I don't know all of the integrating rules yet.
 

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