Can Laplace Transforms be Applied to Finite Intervals?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of Laplace transforms to solve a boundary value problem for a string of length L subjected to an external load f(x). The equation to solve is $$Tu_{xx} = f(x)$$ with boundary conditions $$u(0)=u(L)=0$$. The user attempts to derive the displacement u using Laplace transforms but encounters issues due to the finite interval constraints. The consensus is that applying Laplace transforms directly in this context is inappropriate, necessitating alternative methods for finite intervals.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Laplace transforms and their properties
  • Familiarity with boundary value problems in partial differential equations
  • Knowledge of Dirac delta functions and their applications
  • Basic concepts of displacement and forces in mechanical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Fourier series in solving boundary value problems
  • Learn about the method of separation of variables for PDEs
  • Explore the use of Green's functions in finite domains
  • Investigate alternative numerical methods for solving PDEs on finite intervals
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, engineers, and students involved in solving boundary value problems, particularly those interested in the application of Laplace transforms and finite interval analysis.

LCSphysicist
Messages
644
Reaction score
162
Homework Statement
I don't know why, but my answer is wrong.
Relevant Equations
.
"Consider a string of length L that is connected at both ends to supports and is subjected to a load (external force per unit length) of f(x). Find the displcament u"
https://i.stack.imgur.com/yVIDG.png

We need to solve this:
$$Tu_{xx} = f(x)$$ subject to $$u(0)=u(L)=0$$

But i don't understand what is the problem in my solutions:
$$Tu_{xx} = f(x) = > Tu_{xx} = \delta({x-\epsilon})\\T(Us^2-su(0)-u_{x}(0)) = e^{-s \epsilon}\\U = (e^{-s \epsilon}/T + u_{x}(0))/s^2$$

So, we know that the inverse of $$e^{-s \epsilon}/(Ts^2) = H(x-\epsilon)x/T$$ and inverse of $$(u_{x}(0))/s^2 = u_{x}(0)x$$

So, shouldn't the final answer be $$u = \int_{0}^{L} f(\epsilon) (H(x-\epsilon)x/T + u_{x}(0)x) d \epsilon$$

Why is it wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You have attempted a Laplace transform on a finite interval.
 
Orodruin said:
You have attempted a Laplace transform on a finite interval.
Hello. Thank you. But since we are restrict to a finite interval in x not infinite, this method is not possible? I mean, the method of find g using the delta dirac.
Or do i applied wrong? Could you give a tip to go on?
 

Similar threads

Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
971
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
2K