Differential equations can also be used to model mixing or dilution problems. If we call y the quantity of a given substance in a solution, then its rate of change with respect to time t will be given by
dydt= flow in − flow out.
On the other hand,
flow = concentration × velocity,
and
concentration = quantity volume .
(Notice that the volume might depend on t as well, such as in case the velocities of flow in and flow out are different.)
This gives us
dydt=y coming in volume × velocity in −y going out volume × velocity out.
Example: Lake Pristine holds 50,000 m3 of water. An accident at a nearby factory dumps 10 tons of toxic waste into the lake, where it dissolves. Every day, 5,000 m3 of clean water flows into the lake and 5,000 m3 of lake water flows out. How much waste will remain in the lake in 30 days?