Integration of separate variables

In summary: It is an equation that involves a function and its derivatives, and is used to model relationships between variables in a continuous system.In summary, we discussed the problem of liquid flowing into a small tank with a leak. We determined that the volume of liquid in the tank at any time can be represented by the equation dv/dt=80−kv, where v represents the volume of liquid in the tank and k is a positive constant. We also explored the idea of using two differential equations to solve the problem, but concluded that an additional equation would be needed to account for the loss of liquid due to the leak.
  • #1
Milly
21
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Liquid is flowing into a small tank which has a leak. Initially the tank is empty and, t minutes later, the volume of liquid in the tank is V cm3 . The liquid is flowing into the tank at a constant rate of 80 cm3 per minute. Because of the leak, liquid is being lost from the tank at a rate which, at any instant, is equal to kV cm3 per minute where k is a positive constant.

The equation becomes dv/dt=80−kv but why can't I use dv(gain)/dt = 80 and dv(lost)/dt = kv intergrate both equation and minus V(lost) from V(gain) to get V ?
 
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  • #2
Milly said:
Liquid is flowing into a small tank which has a leak. Initially the tank is empty and, t minutes later, the volume of liquid in the tank is V cm3 . The liquid is flowing into the tank at a constant rate of 80 cm3 per minute. Because of the leak, liquid is being lost from the tank at a rate which, at any instant, is equal to kV cm3 per minute where k is a positive constant.

The equation becomes dv/dt=80−kv but why can't I use dv(gain)/dt = 80 and dv(lost)/dt = kv intergrate both equation and minus V(lost) from V(gain) to get V ?

Hi Milly! :)

You could, but then you need another DE since your second DE depends on v, which is different from v(lost).

You would need the additional equation dv = dv(gain) - dv(lost) to complete the set of differential equations.
Then, when you make the proper substitutions, you'll get dv/dt=80−kv.
 
  • #3
What is DE?
 
  • #4
Milly said:
What is DE?

DE stands for differential equation.
 

FAQ: Integration of separate variables

1. What is the concept of "Integration of separate variables?"

"Integration of separate variables" is a mathematical technique used to solve differential equations by separating the variables and integrating each separately. This allows for the solution to be expressed in terms of one variable and a constant.

2. When do we use "Integration of separate variables?"

"Integration of separate variables" is typically used to solve first-order ordinary differential equations that are separable, meaning they can be rewritten in the form of two functions multiplied together, each depending on only one variable.

3. How do we solve differential equations using "Integration of separate variables?"

To solve a differential equation using "Integration of separate variables," we first separate the variables on either side of the equation and then integrate each side separately. This will result in an equation with the solution in terms of one variable and a constant. The constant can then be found by using initial conditions or boundary conditions.

4. Can "Integration of separate variables" be used for higher-order differential equations?

"Integration of separate variables" can only be used for first-order differential equations. For higher-order differential equations, other techniques such as substitution or variation of parameters may be necessary.

5. Are there any limitations to using "Integration of separate variables?"

Yes, "Integration of separate variables" can only be used for certain types of differential equations that can be rewritten as separable. It is not a general method for solving all types of differential equations. Additionally, the constant of integration may cause multiple solutions to be possible, so initial or boundary conditions must be given to determine the specific solution.

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