Difference between transient and steady state solution

In summary, when dealing with driven simple harmonic motion (SHM), we often ignore a portion of the solution to the differential equation that represents the transient response of the system. This is because the transient response, which occurs when the system is first energized, eventually dissipates and disappears once the system reaches a steady state. This concept applies not just to SHM, but to any system that contains energy storing and dissipating elements. The duration of the transient response depends on the time constant of the system. This idea is further explained in the HyperPhysics discussion on driven oscillators.
  • #1
anirocks11
In driven SHM, we ignore an entire section of the solution to the differential equation claiming that it disappears once the system reaches a steady state. Can someone elaborate on this?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
anirocks11 said:
In driven SHM, we ignore an entire section of the solution to the differential equation claiming that it disappears once the system reaches a steady state. Can someone elaborate on this?
That's not just in SHM. Every system containing energy storing and energy dissipating elements undergoes a transient after it is energized. Almost all practical transients are damped and they disappear after some time (depending on the 'time constant' of the system).
This might help.
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&s...ghdMAw&usg=AFQjCNGEif9MTJWodsYWTEFg_CkiPt7PTw
 
  • Like
Likes S.G. Janssens
  • #3
cnh1995 said:
That's not just in SHM. Every system containing energy storing and energy dissipating elements undergoes a transient after it is energized.
Well pointed out. I wish this generality had been stressed more when I was a student.

Here is another clear discussion: HyperPhysics on driven oscillators.
 
  • Like
Likes cnh1995

1. What is the difference between a transient and steady state solution?

A transient solution refers to the behavior of a system over time, where the system is still adapting to changes in its environment. A steady state solution, on the other hand, refers to the behavior of a system when it has reached a stable equilibrium and is no longer changing over time.

2. How do you determine if a solution is transient or steady state?

This can be determined by analyzing the behavior of the system over time. If the system is still changing and adapting to external stimuli, it is in a transient state. If the system has reached a stable equilibrium and is no longer changing, it is in a steady state.

3. Are transient and steady state solutions equally important in scientific research?

Yes, both transient and steady state solutions are equally important in scientific research. Transient solutions help us understand how a system adapts to changes, while steady state solutions provide valuable information about the stable behavior of a system.

4. How do transient and steady state solutions differ in terms of their mathematical representation?

Transient solutions are typically represented by differential equations, as they involve changes over time. Steady state solutions, on the other hand, can be represented by algebraic equations since there is no change over time.

5. Can a system have both transient and steady state solutions?

Yes, a system can have both transient and steady state solutions. For example, a system may initially be in a transient state as it adapts to changes, but eventually reach a steady state once it has reached a stable equilibrium.

Similar threads

  • Classical Physics
Replies
8
Views
6K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
380
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
Replies
25
Views
1K
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
581
  • Classical Physics
2
Replies
35
Views
2K
Back
Top