How to use the Laplace Transform on a DE with a time coefficent

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the Laplace Transform to a differential equation with a time-dependent coefficient, specifically the equation ty'' + y' = 2t², with the initial condition y(0) = 0. Participants are exploring how to properly apply the Laplace Transform in this context, particularly focusing on the term involving ty''.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to apply the Laplace Transform to the given differential equation, questioning how to handle the time-dependent coefficient. There are discussions about the correct application of the product rule in the context of the Laplace Transform and the implications of differentiating Y(s).

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the application of the Laplace Transform, with some participants providing guidance on the use of the product rule. There is an acknowledgment of the complexity introduced by the time-dependent coefficient, and participants are exploring different interpretations of the steps needed to solve for Y(s).

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the proper handling of the Laplace Transform in relation to the term ty'', indicating a need for clarification on the underlying principles and assumptions involved in the transformation process.

sliperyfrog
Messages
27
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


ty'' + y' = 2t2, y(0) = 0

Homework Equations


laplace(f''(t)) = s2laplace(f(t)) -sf(0) - f'(0)
(-1) (d/ds) (F(s))

The Attempt at a Solution


I know how to solve the problem except for the ty'' part. I tried using the equation and I got -d/ds(s2Y(s) - 0 - f'(0)) which becomes -2sY(s). But this is wrong because it does not lead to the correct answer y = (2/3)t3+c1t2
 
Physics news on Phys.org
sliperyfrog said:

Homework Statement


ty'' + y' = 2t2, y(0) = 0

Homework Equations


laplace(f''(t)) = s2laplace(f(t)) -sf(0) - f'(0)
(-1) (d/ds) (F(s))

The Attempt at a Solution


I know how to solve the problem except for the ty'' part. I tried using the equation and I got -d/ds(s2Y(s) - 0 - f'(0)) which becomes -2sY(s). But this is wrong because it does not lead to the correct answer y = (2/3)t3+c1t2

Your equation for ##Y(s)## is a first-order differential equation, since it involves both ##Y(s)## and ##dY(s)/ds##.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: sliperyfrog
So in the problem when I get the dY(s)/ds after using the product rule what am I supposed to do? Is it the same as having the laplace of y'(t)?
 
sliperyfrog said:
I got -d/ds(s2Y(s) - 0 - f'(0)) which becomes -2sY(s).

No. ##\frac d {ds} (s^2Y(s) \ne -2sY(s))##. You need the product rule.

sliperyfrog said:
So in the problem when I get the dY(s)/ds after using the product rule what am I supposed to do? Is it the same as having the LaPlace of y'(t)?

No, it isn't the same as the LaPlace of ##y'(t)##. You already know the LaPlace of that is ##sY(s)-y(0)##. Assuming you do correctly use the product rule, as has already been pointed out to you, you will get a differential equation in ##Y(s)## which you have to solve for ##Y(s)## before you try to take the inverse.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: sliperyfrog
Thanks for the help I got the answer!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K