In this module you will use differential equations to model the logistic growth data used in Module 3. You will also study Euler's method, which is a numerical method for approximating solutions to differential equations. Euler's method will help you understand how the TI-89 differential equation graphing mode works. In the last lesson you will learn to solve higher-order differential equations using the TI-89.

Lesson Index:

20.1 - Logistic Growth Revisited

20.2 - Euler's Method

20.3 - Second-Order Differential Equations

After completing this module, you should be able to do the following:

• Find the constant in a logistic differential equation that best fits a given data set using the method of "guess and check"
• Use the deSolve command to find a solution to a differential equation for logistic growth
• Use Euler's method to approximate numerical solutions to differential equations
• Use the TI-89 "ans" feature
• Solve second-order differential equations with deSolve
• Find graphical and numerical solutions to higher-order differential equations with the TI-89 Differential Equation graphing mode.