Solve DE for approaching terminal velocity

In summary, the conversation discusses finding a function to describe velocity approaching a terminal velocity. The equation F_{net}=mg-\frac{1}{2}\rho v^2 AC_d is mentioned, and the attempt at a solution involves rewriting the equation as \frac{dv}{dt}=g-kv^2 and solving using integration. The conversation concludes with the suggestion to integrate using partial fractions.
  • #1
magicfountain
28
0

Homework Statement


I'm trying to find the function, that describes the velocity approaching to a terminal velocity.

Homework Equations


[itex]F_{net}=mg-\frac{1}{2}\rho v^2 AC_d[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution


[itex]F=ma[/itex]
[itex]a=F/m[/itex]
[itex]\dot{v}=F/m=g-\frac{1}{2m}\rho v^2 AC_d[/itex]
[itex]\dot{v}=g-kv^2[/itex]
[itex]\dot{v}+kv^2=g[/itex]

(k and g are constants)
I have very few knowledge of DEs and it seems hard to guess a solution.
Can somebody help me?
 
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  • #2
Rewrite the equation as
[tex]\frac{dv}{dt}=g-kv^2[/tex]
[tex]\frac{dv}{g-kv^2}=dt[/tex]

Now it should be easy to solve.
 
  • #3
thank you!
now it seems obvious. :D
 
  • #4
The expression can be rewritten as:
[tex]\frac{dv}{k((\sqrt{\frac{g}{k}})^2-v^2)}=dt[/tex]

Integrating LHS is same as integrating [itex]\frac{dx}{a^2-x^2}[/itex] where a is some constant. Integrate [itex]\frac{dx}{a^2-x^2}[/itex] using partial fractions.
 

FAQ: Solve DE for approaching terminal velocity

What is the equation for approaching terminal velocity?

The equation for approaching terminal velocity is v = vt(1 - e-kt), where v is the velocity, vt is the terminal velocity, t is time, and k is a constant determined by the object's properties and the medium it is moving through.

How do you solve a differential equation for approaching terminal velocity?

To solve the differential equation for approaching terminal velocity, you must first set up the equation and isolate the velocity term. Then, you can use integration techniques to solve for velocity as a function of time. Finally, you can plug in the given values for time and terminal velocity to find the constant k and solve the equation.

What factors affect an object's terminal velocity?

An object's terminal velocity is affected by its mass, surface area, and the medium it is moving through. Objects with larger masses or surface areas will have a higher terminal velocity, while objects in denser mediums will have a lower terminal velocity.

How does air resistance affect an object's terminal velocity?

Air resistance is the force that opposes an object's motion through air. As an object falls, it accelerates until the air resistance force becomes equal to the force of gravity. At this point, the object reaches its terminal velocity and will continue to fall at a constant speed. Therefore, air resistance plays a crucial role in determining an object's terminal velocity.

Can an object reach a higher terminal velocity if it is dropped from a greater height?

Yes, an object can reach a higher terminal velocity if it is dropped from a greater height. This is because the object has more time to accelerate due to the force of gravity. However, once the object reaches its terminal velocity, it will continue to fall at a constant speed regardless of the height from which it was dropped.

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