Why Is My Calculation of dS/dt for a Shrinking Spherical Raindrop Incorrect?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical modeling of a spherical raindrop that evaporates at a rate proportional to its surface area. Participants are tasked with deriving differential equations related to the volume and surface area of the raindrop as functions of time, specifically focusing on the rate of change of the surface area.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the rate of change of surface area based on the relationship between volume and radius, but expresses confusion over the requirement that the equation should not include independent variables. Other participants question the validity of the original poster's approach and suggest clarifications regarding the use of variables in the equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different approaches to derive the correct expression for the rate of change of surface area. Some guidance has been provided regarding the use of LaTeX for formatting equations, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct formulation of the differential equation for surface area.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the differential equation for surface area should not include the volume, which is a key constraint in the problem. There is also mention of formatting preferences for presenting mathematical expressions.

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Homework Statement


A spherical raindrop evaporates at a rate proportional to its surface area with (positive) constant of proportionality k; i.e. the rate of change of the volume exactly equals −k times the surface area. Write differential equations for each of the quantities below as a function of time. For each case the right hand side should be a function of the dependent variable and the constant k. For example, the answer to the first question should not depend on S or r.

Homework Equations


I was able to find dV/dt, dr/dt using mathematical models but I can't figure out why my answer isn't right for dS(surface area)/dt.

The Attempt at a Solution


My dV/dt is -k\left(36\pi \right)^{\left(\frac{1}{3}\right)}V^{\left(\frac{2}{3}\right)}
My dr/dt is -k.
Because the equation for the surface area is 4*pi*r^2, the derivative of this would be 8*pi*r dr/dt.
Thus, this can be rewritten as -8k*pi*r. However, because my right side cannot include any independent variables, I must write by r in terms of Volume, which is r = (3V/4pi)^(1/3). So I put down my answer using these but in turns out its wrong so I'm kinda lost.
 
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Here's my second attempt. My s is s = ((36pi)^(1/3))*V^(2/3). Taking the derivative of this would be {(2((36pi)^(1/3))*V^(-1/3))/3}*(dv/dt). And I think plugging in dv/dt would give me a solution but if that's the case, I don't know why my answer would differ.
 
Also, if there's any way to put down formulas without using brackets and stuff, would much appreciate it if someone can tell me
 
According to the problem statement, the DE for the surface area should not contain the volume. Also, you can use LaTeX through mathjax. See the latex part of the about page.
 

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