How can I use the Dirac delta function in a Laplace transform?

In summary, the problem involves an equation with a Dirac delta function and a sine function. The solution involves using the properties of the Dirac delta to evaluate the integral on the right side of the equation.
  • #1
Jamin2112
986
12

Homework Statement



2y'' + y' + 4y = ∂(t-π/6)sin(t); y(0)=0, y'(0)=1/2.

Homework Equations



Dunno

The Attempt at a Solution



The left side of the equation is what's tripping me up. There's nothing on my Elementary Laplace Transforms table that has the Dirac delta function multiplied by another function, or sin(at) multiplied by another function f(t). So what should I do?
 
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  • #2
You mean the right side? The delta functions makes it very easy actually. Consider the value of the integral when [itex]t \neq \pi/6[/itex]. Now consider [itex]t = \pi/6[/itex].
 
  • #3
I think you meant the right-hand side. Anyway, just plug the RHS into the definition of the Laplace transform and evaluate the integral. The delta function makes it easy to do.
 
  • #4
One of the properties of the Dirac delta is that for any sufficiently smooth function [itex]f[/itex], [itex]\int f(x)\delta(x-a)dx=f(a)[/itex] if the integration interval includes the point [itex]x=a[/itex], and the integral is zero otherwise. Use that.
 

1. What is a Laplace transform?

A Laplace transform is a mathematical operation that transforms a function in the time domain into a function in the complex frequency domain. It is often used in engineering and physics to solve differential equations and analyze systems.

2. What does it mean for a Laplace transform to be "lame"?

In this context, "lame" refers to a Laplace transform that does not provide any useful information or is not helpful in solving a problem. This could be due to the function being too complex or the transform not being appropriate for the given problem.

3. How is a Laplace transform different from a Fourier transform?

While both Laplace and Fourier transforms are mathematical operations that convert a function from one domain to another, they differ in the type of functions they are used for. Laplace transforms are typically used for functions that are defined for all real numbers, while Fourier transforms are used for periodic functions defined over a finite interval.

4. What are some applications of Laplace transforms?

Laplace transforms have many applications in physics and engineering, including solving differential equations in circuits, analyzing control systems, and modeling physical systems such as heat transfer and fluid flow. They are also used in signal processing, image processing, and data analysis.

5. Are there any limitations to using Laplace transforms?

While Laplace transforms are a powerful tool for solving many mathematical problems, they do have some limitations. They may not be suitable for functions with discontinuities or singularities, and they may not always provide a unique solution. Additionally, the inverse Laplace transform, which converts a function back to the time domain, can be difficult to compute for some functions.

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