Where did I go wrong? [Laplace Transform]

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the Laplace Transform of the function f(t) = t^2 using the known transform L[1] = 1/s. The user correctly applies integration by parts to compute L[f], ultimately arriving at L[t^2] = 2/s^3. The user questions the sign of the result and seeks clarification on the application of L[1] in this context. The conclusion drawn is that the correct approach involves using the formula L[t^a f(t)] = (-d/ds)^a L[f], confirming that L[t^2] = (d^2/ds^2)(1/s) = 2/s^3.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Laplace Transform operator (L)
  • Familiarity with integration by parts technique
  • Knowledge of the function f(t) = t^2
  • Basic calculus, specifically differentiation with respect to s
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the Laplace Transform, particularly the differentiation property
  • Learn advanced integration techniques, including repeated integration by parts
  • Explore the application of Laplace Transforms in solving differential equations
  • Investigate the use of Laplace Transforms in control theory and signal processing
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in engineering, mathematics, and physics who are working with Laplace Transforms, particularly those involved in solving differential equations and analyzing systems in the time domain.

mathwurkz
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[tex]L[/tex] is Laplace Transform operator.
Question is:

Let [tex]f(t) = t^2[/tex]. Derive [tex]L[f][/tex] from [tex]L[1][/tex]

So I know [tex]f(1) =1[/tex] and [tex]L[1] = \frac{1}{s}[/tex]

Carrying out the Transform...

[tex]L[f] = \int_{0}^{\infty} e^{-st}t^2 dt[/tex]

Integration by parts [tex]u = t^2, dv = e^{-st} dt[/tex]

I do the integration, the uv terms go to zero. after I clean up I get

[tex]- \int_{0}^{\infty} \frac{e^{-st}}{-s} 2t\ dt[/tex]

Doing IBP again. [tex]u = t,\ dv = e^{-st} dt[/tex] Rinse and repeat.

[tex]- \frac{2}{s} \int_{0}^{\infty} \frac{e^{-st}}{-s} (1) dt \\<br /> = - \frac{2}{s} \left( \frac{e^{-st}}{s^2}\right)_{0}^{\infty} = - \frac{2}{s^3}[/tex]

Ok. So is that right? I don't think the negative is right at the end. But what the bigger thing that worries me is how do I use L[1] in this? Or is that a different approach?
 
Last edited:
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It seems something like this is wanted
[tex]L[t^a \ f(t)]=\left(-\frac{d}{ds}\right)^aL[f][/tex]
thus
[tex]L[t^2]=L[t^2 \ 1]=\left(-\frac{d}{ds}\right)^2L[1]=\frac{d^2}{{ds}^2} \ \frac{1}{s}=\frac{2}{s^3}[/tex]
 

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