How to Solve a Differential Equation with Laplace Transform?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a differential equation using the Laplace transform method. The specific equation is y'' + 4y = x for 0 <= x < π and y'' + 4y = πe^(-x) for π <= x, with initial conditions y(0) = 0 and y'(0) = 1.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants suggest starting with the application of Laplace transforms to the equations. There is a discussion about rewriting the equation using the Heaviside step function to handle the piecewise nature of the problem. Some participants express confusion about the necessity of the Heaviside function and seek clarification on its application.

Discussion Status

There are various lines of reasoning being explored, including the use of Laplace transforms and alternative methods for solving the differential equation. Some participants have provided guidance on how to approach the problem, while others question the chosen method and suggest simpler alternatives.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the constraints of the problem, including the piecewise definition of the differential equation and the initial conditions. There is an emphasis on not providing complete solutions, aligning with the forum's guidelines.

Loadme
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I have a differential equation that has to be solved with Laplace. I wish someone can provide a full answer

y'' + 4y = x , 0<=x<π
y'' + 4y = πe^-x , π<=x

Initial Conditions:
y(0)=0 y'(0)=1
 
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Sorry we do not do that here.

Start by applying Laplace tranforms to each of the equations.
 
Loadme said:
I have a differential equation that has to be solved with Laplace. I wish someone can provide a full answer

y'' + 4y = x , 0<=x<π
y'' + 4y = πe^-x , π<=x

Initial Conditions:
y(0)=0 y'(0)=1
No "full answer" but:
1) Solve y"+ 4y= x, 0<= x< [itex]\pi[/itex]
with initial conditions y(0)= 0, y'(0)= 1.

Evaluate the function, [itex]y_1(x)[/itex], satifying those conditions and its derivative at [itex]x= \pi[/itex] and solve
2) [itex]y''[/itex][itex]+ 4y=[/itex][itex]\pi e^{-x}[/itex]
with initial conditions [itex]y(\pi)= y_1(\pi)[/itex], [itex]y'(\pi)= y_1'(\pi)[/itex].
 
Where I am stuck is how to transform the right part as to write it for the proper laplace transform
How I would do it(and correct me where I am wrong)
y'' + 4y = x[u(x-0)-u(x-π)] + πe^(-x)*u(x-π)

How do you apply the Heavyside? Can you explain me your technique?
 
Why would you want to use a Heaviside step function? Please advise.

You need to transform the equation. What have you got so far?
 
I can see no good reason to use "Laplace transform". The problem is close to trivial with regular methods (find the general solution to the associated homogeneous equation and add a particular solution found by "undetermined coefficients".
 

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