Where Did I Go Wrong in Solving This Initial Value Problem?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving an initial value problem involving a first-order differential equation, specifically dy/dt = -y + 5 with the initial condition y(0) = y_naught. Participants explore the integration process and the correct application of separation of variables.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant outlines their solution process but expresses confusion over a disagreement with the book's answer.
  • Another participant suggests an alternative approach by changing the separation of variables to dy/(y-5) = -dt, indicating a potential error in the original method.
  • A participant seeks clarification on the reasoning behind the suggested change in approach, reflecting a lack of understanding of the chain rule in integration.
  • Another participant points out that the integral of 1/(5-y) is not ln(5-y) due to the chain rule, implying a need for careful application of integration techniques.
  • A later participant acknowledges their confusion and thanks others for their help, indicating they have resolved the issue with guidance from the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the initial approach to solving the problem, as there are competing views on the correct method for integration. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the initial participant's solution process.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted misunderstanding related to the application of the chain rule during integration, which affects the correctness of the initial separation of variables. The discussion also highlights the participant's self-identified gaps in knowledge due to time away from calculus.

cameuth
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OK, so clearly I am missing something, because I know this is supposed to be a simple problem. It reads:

solve the following initial value problem:
dy/dt=-y+5
y(0)=y_naught

my process is as follows:
dy/(5-y)=dt
integrate
ln(5-y)=t+C
exponential both sides
5-y=(e^t)(e^c)
y=5-(e^t)(e^c)

solve for constant:
y_naught=5-e^c
e^c=5-y_naught

final answer:
y=5-(5-y_naught)e^t


My book disagrees with this answer slightly, can anyone see where I've stumbled in the process?
 
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hi cameuth! :smile:
cameuth said:
dy/(5-y)=dt
integrate
ln(5-y)=t+C

nooo :redface:

try dy/(y-5) = -dt :wink:
 
I'm sorry... but can you explain why that is. Intuitively what I see is
dy/dt=5-y
divide by (5-y) multiply by dt
dy/5-y=dt

I'm sorry again that I'm such a beginner at this, I just don't understand why you did what you did. I see that it gets me the right answer your way, but not why we go that path.
 
Because the integral of 1/(5-y) isn't ln(5-y). Chain rule.
 
(just got up :zzz: …)

yes … you missed out a minus :wink:
 
sorry for the late reply. I got the answer guys, and y'all were a ton of help. Seriously, thanks. It's been awhile since six months since I've done cal 3 and so my integrating has some rust to knock off.
 

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