Solve Inverse Laplace of 1 - Get Answer Instantly

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The inverse Laplace transform of the constant 1 is the Dirac delta function, denoted as δ(x). This is derived from the property that the integral of e^(-sx) multiplied by δ(x) equals 1. Confusion arises when trying to equate L^{-1}(1) with s or manipulate known transforms incorrectly. Additionally, a proposed property suggests that the inverse Laplace transform of s^k equals D^kδ(t) for k > 0, which aligns with Fourier transform properties. Overall, understanding the definitions and properties of Laplace transforms is crucial for accurate calculations.
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Homework Statement



anyone know how to find inverse laplace of 1?
that is
L-11=?

The Attempt at a Solution



can we use
L-11=s ?
L{s}=s.(1/s)=1

Thanks
 
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Normally, the Laplace tranform of a function of x is written as a function of s. You seem to be confusing the two. The Laplace transform of f(x)= x is
\int_0^\infty xe^{-sx}dx= \frac{1}{s^2}
by integration by parts, not 1. And you certainly cannot just multiply a Laplace transform you already know by the variable to get another Laplace transform!

The inverse Laplace transform of the constant 1 is the Dirac delta function \delta(x):
\int_0^\infty e^{-sx}\delta(x)dx= e^{-s(0)}= 1
since, by definition, \int_S f(x)\delta(x) dx= f(0) as long as the region of integration, S, includes 0.

Here's a good table of Laplace and inverse Laplace transforms:
http://www.vibrationdata.com/Laplace.htm
 
thank you:smile:
 
regarding this topic , using the Laplace transform properties would it be valid that

\mathcal L^{-1} (s^{k})= D^{k}\delta (t) ??

where k >0 any real number (at least this property seems to work with Fourier transforms)

the case k <0 would involve integration , but the integrals of the Dirac delta (with k integer) are well defined for t >0 (except perhaps at the point t=0 )
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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