Indefinite Integrals / Laplace Transforms

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The discussion revolves around finding the Laplace transform of the function f(t) = t using improper integrals. The participant is struggling with applying integration by parts to complete the transformation and expresses frustration over their lack of understanding. They share a starting point for the integration process but feel overwhelmed by the explanations provided. Other contributors suggest that a foundational knowledge of integration by parts is essential for tackling Laplace transforms effectively. The conversation emphasizes the importance of studying the underlying concepts to improve comprehension and performance in future problems.
EvanQ
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Homework Statement



Using improper integrals, find the Laplace transform of f(t)=t, determining the values of s for which the transform is valid.

Homework Equations



The Laplace transform F(s) of a function f is defined as

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F(s)= | f(t)e^(-st) dt.
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The Attempt at a Solution

I have completely worked the question up until, and am pretty sure I know how to finish it off after integrating the Laplace transform function. It's been hinted at me to use integration by parts but I am completely lost at how to do this.

Please help out?
 
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I'll give you a starting point. integral(t*exp(-s*t)*dt)=(-1/s)integral(t*d(exp(-s*t)). Now can you do the integration by parts on the parts t and exp(-s*t)?
 
Generally for integration by parts -
\int_a^b f(x) g'(x)\,dx\,=\,\left[ f(x) g(x) \right]_{a}^{b} - \int_a^b f'(x) g(x)\,dx

let f(x) = t and g'(x) = e-st.
 
mmm thanks for the help guys, but it seems my problem was just a complete lack of knowledge on the topic, and even your help is going over my head.
looks like i'll just flunk this question and hit the books so it doesn't happen again.
 
EvanQ said:
mmm thanks for the help guys, but it seems my problem was just a complete lack of knowledge on the topic, and even your help is going over my head.
looks like i'll just flunk this question and hit the books so it doesn't happen again.

Hitting the books as a response to flunking a question shows wise judgement. Good luck. Tackling Laplace transforms w/o a knowledge of integration by parts is probably a poor idea. Just to tease, can you do the Laplace transform of 1? Differentiate it with respect to s.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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