Solve the initial value problem?

In summary: So, in summary, the problem is to find a function y(x) such that y'(x) = (1) / ( 2√x ) + 10. This can be done by finding two functions, f(x) and g(x), such that f '(x) = (1) / ( 2√x ) and g'(x) = 10. This can be achieved by "differentiating backwards" and using the rules of differentiation, or by taking the integrals of these functions.
  • #1
femmed0ll
6
0
1) (dy/dx) = (1) / ( 2√x ) + 10 , y(1) = -1
2) (d^(2)r / dt^2) = ( 4 / t^3 ) ; (dr/dt) | t=1 = -5, r(1)=5

... i have no idea where to start.
what are the steps needed to figure out the answer...can someone please solve this for me! t
thank you so much.
 
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  • #2
(1) So the problem here is that you need to find a function y(x) such that when you differentiate it, you get (1) / ( 2√x ) + 10, right? Recall that the operation of differentiating is linear. Meaning that for any two functions f,g, we have (f + g)'=f ' + g'. This observation may help you to simplify the problem. Indeed, if you can find two functions f(x), g(x) such that f '(x)=(1) / ( 2√x ) and g'(x)=10, then the solution to the problem will be y(x) = f(x) + g(x). Do you agree?

Ok, so we've split the difficult problem of finding a function y(x) such that y'(x) = (1) / ( 2√x ) + 10 into the 2 easier problems of finding functions f(x), g(x) such that f '(x)=(1) / ( 2√x ) and g'(x)=10.

This is just a matter of "differentiating backwards". You are used to finding the derivative of a given function. Here, you are given a function and must find it is the derivative of what function.

If you have practiced differentiating enough, then this should not be too hard. Start with finding g(x) as it is somewhat easier than finding f(x). Help yourself with a table listing the rules of differentiation if necessary.

Equivalently, if you know what an integral is and if you're familiar with the rules for solving them, then

[tex]f(x)=\int \frac{1}{2\sqrt{x}}dx[/tex]

and

[tex]g(x)=\int 10dx[/tex]
 
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Related to Solve the initial value problem?

1. What is an initial value problem?

An initial value problem is a type of mathematical problem that involves finding a function that satisfies a given differential equation and a set of initial conditions. These initial conditions typically include the value of the function at a specific point, as well as information about the rate of change of the function at that point.

2. How do you solve an initial value problem?

To solve an initial value problem, you first need to determine the type of differential equation it is (e.g. first-order, second-order, etc.) and then use appropriate techniques to find the general solution. Then, you can plug in the initial conditions to find the particular solution that satisfies the problem.

3. What are some common techniques used to solve initial value problems?

Some common techniques used to solve initial value problems include separation of variables, integrating factors, and substitution. These methods involve manipulating the given differential equation to obtain the general solution.

4. Can all initial value problems be solved analytically?

No, not all initial value problems can be solved analytically. Some problems may have solutions that cannot be expressed in terms of elementary functions, making it impossible to find an exact solution. In these cases, numerical methods can be used to approximate the solution.

5. When are initial value problems useful in real-world applications?

Initial value problems are useful in many real-world applications, such as predicting population growth, modeling physical systems, and analyzing financial data. They can be used to find the behavior of a system over time, given certain initial conditions, and can provide valuable insights and predictions for various scenarios.

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