Differential equation. separate variables and solve using partial fractions

In summary, the conversation is about solving a differential equation using partial fractions. The attempt at a solution involves rearranging the equation and factoring the denominator before integrating. The final answer is given as x(t)=[3(1-e-12t)]/[2(1+e-12t)], but there is difficulty in manipulating the solution to get to this answer. After some reassurance, the correct method is applied and the solution is successfully found.
  • #1
ProPatto16
326
0

Homework Statement



seperate and solve using partial fractions

dx/dt=9-4x2, x(0)=0


The Attempt at a Solution



rearranging gives dx/(9-4x2) = dt
factorising denominator in preperation for partial fractions becomes

dx/(3-2x)(3+2x) then A/(3-2x) + B/(3+2x) dx

so A(3+2x)+ B(3-2x) = 1

therefore 3A+3B=1 and 2Ax-2Bx=0 therefore A+B=1/3 and A-B=0 therefore A=1/6 and B=1/6

so integral becomes

(1/6)/(3-2x) + (1/6)/(3+2x) dx = 1/6*-1/2ln|3-2x| + 1/6*1/2ln|3+2x|

and RHS is just t+C

with x(0)=0 then C = 0

the Answer is given as x(t)=[3(1-e-12t)]/[2(1+e-12t)]

but i can't seem to manipulate my answer to get there...
 
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  • #2
your partial fractions look correct and then when you integrated it, it also looks correct. Just combine the logs and then raise both sides to e and then solve for x .
 
  • #3
With c=0...
-1/12ln((3-2x)/(3+2x))=t
Ln((3-2x)/(3+2x))=-12t
(3-2x)/(3+2x)=e^-12t
... ?
How to gather x terms together? This Is where icant get to the answer given :(
 
  • #4
multiply both side by (3+2x) then get all the x's on one side and then factor out the x
 
  • #5
Got it!
A case of staring at it for too long and missing the basic method. Just needed reassuring I was doing it right.
Thanks!
 
  • #6
nice
 

Related to Differential equation. separate variables and solve using partial fractions

1. What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is an equation that relates one or more functions to their derivatives. It describes the relationship between a function and its rate of change.

2. What does it mean to separate variables in a differential equation?

Separating variables in a differential equation refers to the process of isolating the dependent and independent variables on opposite sides of the equation. This allows for the equation to be solved by integrating both sides separately.

3. How do you solve a differential equation using partial fractions?

To solve a differential equation using partial fractions, the equation must first be rewritten as a rational function. The rational function is then decomposed into simpler fractions using the method of partial fractions. These fractions can then be integrated separately to find the solution to the differential equation.

4. What are the benefits of solving differential equations using partial fractions?

Solving differential equations using partial fractions allows for the use of simpler integration methods and can lead to a more straightforward solution. It also allows for the solution to be expressed in terms of familiar functions such as logarithms and inverse trigonometric functions.

5. What are some real-world applications of differential equations?

Differential equations have a wide range of real-world applications, including modeling population growth, predicting stock prices, analyzing the spread of diseases, and understanding the behavior of electrical circuits. They are also used in various fields of engineering, physics, and economics.

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