Formulating differential equations from word problems

Formulating differential equations from word problems

1. Step 1 - Identify the independent and dependent variables and assign letters to represent them

2. Step 2 - Choose the units of measurements for each variable from step 1

3. Step 3 - Make a connection with the basic principle that governs the problem being investigated. E.g. Newton's law of motion

4. Step 4 - Express the principle or law in step 3 in terms of the variables you chose in step 1

5. Step 5 - Make sure that each term in your equation has the same physical units

6. Step 6 - Solve the differential equation and answer the question accordingly