Differential Equations › Section B · First order differential equations › Topic B.7

Modeling with first order equations

Tanks, populations, falling bodies and circuits all obey first-order equations once the physical rules are written down carefully. Setting up the equation is usually the hard part; this topic shows how to do it, solve it and check that the answer makes sense.

In this topic

  • Three stages of a model
  • Rate in minus rate out
  • Worked example: a tank that fills
  • Worked example: growth with removal
  • Falling bodies and sign conventions
  • Worked example: a skydiver
  • Circuits, decay and cooling
  • Checking a model
  • Common mistakes to avoid
  • Key takeaways

This topic is part of Wuanberri Pro. Checking your access…

← Previous topicNext topic →