Porisma

A hint to get started

Solve and assess an exponential rod-expansion model

When a metal rod is heated, its length LL increases at a rate proportional to LL.

(i) Write a differential equation for dL/dtdL/dt in terms of LL.

(ii) Show that its general solution is L=AektL=Ae^{kt}.

(iii) The initial length is 5050 cm. Sketch LL against tt.

(iv) Explain why this differential equation does not appropriately describe the expansion of the heated rod.

[2006/RJC/Promo/11]

CJC · Discussion · Question 7

Separate the equation, apply L(0), then examine its long-time prediction.

Read the worked solution