Help with an easy Laplace Transform problem.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the Laplace Transform of a function defined as the derivative of a product involving an exponential decay and a cosine function. The participants explore the properties of Laplace Transforms related to derivatives and the influence of exponential functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to apply known transforms and theorems related to derivatives. Questions arise about the correct initial conditions and the implications of typos in the problem statement. There is also an exploration of how to combine different elements of the Laplace Transform.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants correcting each other's misunderstandings and clarifying the initial conditions. Some guidance has been provided regarding the application of Laplace Transform properties, but there remains uncertainty about the correct approach to reach the final answer.

Contextual Notes

There is confusion regarding the initial condition f(0), with different participants suggesting varying values. The original poster expresses concern about the problem's relevance to an upcoming exam, indicating a time constraint and pressure to understand the material.

wiz0r
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Problem;

If, f(t) = d/dt [(e^-5t) (cos2t)]

Find F(s).

Eh, well, I don't really know what to do, can I get some pointers?

Am I supposed to integrate both sides, so I can get rid of d/dt, and then apply the integration property to find the answer?
 
Last edited:
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You should

  • Know the transform of [tex]\cos 2t[/tex]
  • Have a theorem that tells you how to find the transform of a derivative of a function
  • Know how multiplication by an exponential function influences the transform of a given function

Using these ideas, not necessarily in the order presented here, will get you through the problem.
 
Ok, thank you statdad.

Anyway, first of all I made a typo on the initial equation. The correct f(t) is;

f(t) = d/dt [(e^-5t) (cos2t)]

Now, what I know is;

if f(t) = cos2t, then F(s) = s / (s^2 + 4)

also, if f(t) = (e^-5t) (cos2t) ,then F(s) = (s + 5) / [(s + 5)^2 +4]

Now, I know that;

df(t) / dt = sF(s) - f(0) and that f(0) = 1

Now, I will try to add everything together and find an answer..
 
Umm, well;

I know that df(t) / dt = sF(s) - f(0) and that f(0) = 1

so,

L[f(t)] = s [(s + 5) / (s + 5)^2 +4] - 1

F(s) = [s(s+5) / (s+5)^2 + 4 ] - s

Am I correct?
 
Last edited:
wiz0r said:
F(s) = [s(s+5) / (s+5)^2 + 4 ] - s
Where did this 's' come from? More importantly does the question say that f(0) = 1?
 
You are correct, I can not say that f(0) = 1, also, that was another mistake(the s). But, well, I guess, that doesn't help me much. :x

Anyway, I found a ti89 program to find the transform. I know now that the answer is;

F(s) = -(5s + 29) / s^2 + 10s + 29

But, huh, no idea how to get there. It's 2:35 am, being doing all kind of problems with laplace transforms, and the first problem(this one), I can't solve it. Woot, for some reason I feel this problem or something really similar to this is coming on my exam tomorrow. >_>
 
So, umm f(0) should be zero, right?

f(0) = d/dt ( cos0 ) = 0

Ok, now, I get;

F(s) = [s(s+5) / (s+5)^2 + 4 ]

F(s) = s(s+5) / s^2 + 10s + 29

Hey, well at least the denominator is correct. >.> Wonder what am I doing wrong.
 
You're right about that. f(0) = 1 by substitution. I thought we were solving a DE and the initial condition was omitted.

Your answer is correct. Just combine the -1 into the same fraction and you'll get what your program gave you.
 
Alright. Thank you, Defender. Now I can sleep in peace.
 

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