Convolution theorem for Laplace Transform proof

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding a specific step in the proof of the convolution theorem for the Laplace Transform, particularly focusing on the reversal of the order of integration in a double integral. Participants are examining the limits of integration and the geometric interpretation of the integration domain as depicted in a referenced figure.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the limits of integration after reversing the order of integration in the proof.
  • Another participant suggests that the limits are determined by the integration domain shown in the figure, emphasizing the need to understand how fixed values of the parameters affect the integration limits.
  • A different participant indicates that the integration domain is a result of the variable change from ##\sigma## to ##t## in the inner integral.
  • One participant notes that visualizing the integration domain helps clarify the limits after the order of integration is reversed.
  • Another participant reflects on the utility of manipulating the order of integration in multivariable calculus to simplify problems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that understanding the integration domain is crucial, but there is no consensus on the specific details of how the limits are derived or the best way to visualize them.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential limitations in understanding the geometric interpretation of the integration domain and the assumptions involved in changing the order of integration.

marksman95
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Hi all.

Sorry about creating this new threat despite existing some others on the same topic.

I have a problem in understanding a very specific step in the mentioned proof.

Let me take the proof given in this link as our guide.

My problem is just at the ending. When it says:

"The region of integration for this last iterated integral is the wedge-shaped region in the (t, τ) plane shown in Figure 12.28. We reverse the order of integration in the integral to get:"

$$F(s)G(s) = \int_0^\infty \left[ \int_0^t f(t)·g(\tau-t)·e^{-st}\; \mathrm{d}\tau\right]\; \mathrm{d}t$$

I don't understand how this reversion gives these limits of integration. How do we get from

$$F(s)G(s) = \int_0^\infty \left[ \int_\tau^\infty f(t)·g(\tau-t)·e^{-st}\; \mathrm{d}t\right]\; \mathrm{d}\tau$$

to there?

Thanks.
 
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It is simply two different ways of defining the integration domain, which is shown in figure 12.28.

Since both parameters can be 0 to ##\infty##, the outer integral necessarily needs to be from 0 to ##\infty##. The inner integral must be such that you integrate over the shaded domain and nothing else. If you have fixed ##t## what values can ##\tau## take within this domain? If you have fixed ##\tau##, what values can ##t## take in this domain?
 
Thanks Orodruin!

But now I think my problem is with this integration domain which is shown in the figure...

Could you (or someone else) explain how this integration domain is found and understood?

Thanks again!
 
The integration domain looks the way it does because of how the integral was constructed in the first place. This comes about when they change variables from ##\sigma## to ##t## in the inner integral.
 
That's right, the visual picture on the 2nd page really helps to see this.
The original inside integral (which you have posted 2nd marskman) is integrating first from left to right or, from t= τ (tau) to ∞, then the outside covers the bounds (τ=0 to τ=∞) But then by reversing the order you'll go from τ=0 to τ=t as the new inside function then cover the remaining bounds, again, from t=0 to t=∞.

Manipulating the order of integration made many problems easier in multivariable calc.
 
marksman95 said:
Sorry about creating this new threat
I'm scared.....
 

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