Find f(t) given an inverse Laplace transform

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the function f(t) using the inverse Laplace transform of a given expression. The specific expression is L^{-1}\left\{\frac{s}{s^{2}+4s+5}\right\}, which requires manipulation to identify the correct form for applying inverse transforms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss completing the square and splitting the fraction to identify terms corresponding to cosine and sine functions. Questions arise regarding the completeness of the initial Laplace transform and the derivation of the sine term in the final answer.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different algebraic manipulations and clarifying the steps involved in the inverse Laplace transform process. Some guidance has been offered regarding the splitting of fractions and the relationship between the terms in the numerator and the resulting functions.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of potential missing components in the Laplace transform and the need for techniques such as partial fraction decomposition, which may not have been fully utilized in the original attempt.

JJBladester
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Homework Statement



Find [tex]f(t)[/tex].

Homework Equations



[tex]L^{-1}\left\{\frac{s}{s^{2}+4s+5}\right\}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried completing the square to get to the solution and I ended up with:

[tex]L^{-1}\left\{\frac{s}{s^{2}+4s+5}\right\}[/tex] =

[tex]L^{-1}\left\{\frac{s}{(s+2)^{2}+1}\right\}[/tex]

Then, I used the inverse of a transform for cosine and the first translation theorum:

[tex]coskt = L^{-1}\left\{\frac{s}{(s^{2}+k^{2})}\right\}[/tex]

[tex]L\left\{e^{at}f(t)\right\} = F(s-a)}[/tex]

with [tex]a[/tex] being -2 and [tex]k[/tex] being 1 to get an answer of:

[tex]e^{-2t}cos(t)[/tex]

However, I was wrong. The book had the following answer:

[tex]e^{-2t}cos(t)-2e^{-2t}sin(t)[/tex]

My question is where does the [tex]-2e^{-2t}sin(t)[/tex] come from?
 
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Are you sure that is all of the Laplace transform?
 
[tex]\frac{s}{(s+2)^2+1}=\frac{s+2 -2}{(s+2)^2+1}[/tex]

now when you split that into two fractions, the one with s+2 in the numerator will give the cos term and the other will give the sin term, assuming I remember laplace transform correctly.
 
Good call, I knew that was missing but for some reason failed to mention it =(
 
rock.freak667 said:
[tex]\frac{s}{(s+2)^2+1}=\frac{s+2 -2}{(s+2)^2+1}[/tex]

now when you split that into two fractions, the one with s+2 in the numerator will give the cos term and the other will give the sin term, assuming I remember laplace transform correctly.

Aaaaha! That looks like a Calc II trick coming back to light. The chapter in my Differential Equations book dealing with Laplace Transforms does talk a lot about fancy algebra techniques like partial fraction decomposition, rearranging constants, and completing the square. I just forgot this one in particular.

Thanks for the explanation.
 

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