Can you use inverse Laplace transforms to solve problems with repeated roots?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of inverse Laplace transforms specifically in the context of problems involving repeated roots. Participants explore techniques and methods for solving such problems, including algebraic manipulations and the application of shifting theorems.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks techniques for performing inverse Laplace transforms on expressions with repeated roots, providing an example: (10-4s)/(s-2)^2.
  • Another participant offers a solution involving Mathematica, suggesting a specific form for the inverse Laplace transform: 2 Exp[2t](-2+t).
  • A third participant reiterates the initial inquiry and suggests breaking down the example using algebra and shifting theorems, referencing an external resource for further guidance.
  • A fourth participant outlines a step-by-step technique for finding the partial fraction expansion of the rational expression, emphasizing the importance of equating coefficients of polynomials on both sides of the equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on a single method or solution, as participants present different techniques and approaches to the problem. Multiple competing views and methods remain in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference external resources for further clarification on techniques, indicating that the discussion may depend on specific mathematical definitions and assumptions related to Laplace transforms and partial fraction expansions.

tedkon
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I am looking for inverse Laplace transform techniques with repeated roots. Example (10-4s)/(s-2)^2
 
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2 Exp[2t](-2+t)

You need Mathematica :-p
 
Here is a technique.

1. Write the equation setting the rational expression, in this case (10-4s)/(s-2)^2, equal to its partial fraction expansion (on the right hand side) with unknowns.

2. Multiply both sides by the denominator of the rational expression.

3. Expand the right hand side to be a polynomial in s, and do this to the left side too if necessary.

4. You know the polynomial on the left side is equal to the polynomial on the right hand side. So the cofficients must be equal. For example the coiefficent of s^2 on the left must be equal to the coefficient of s^2 on the right. So you now can write a system of linear equations and solve for the unknowns in the partial fraction expansion.

For an example see http://www.swarthmore.edu/NatSci/ec...on/PartialFraction.html#Repeated_Real_Roots." in the section titled "Example: Cross Multiplication"
 
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