Is y(t) Time-Invariant? Debating an Elementary Question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of whether the system defined by the equation y(t) = \frac{d}{dt}\left[e^{-t}x(t)\right] is time-invariant (TI). Participants explore the implications of time invariance through mathematical proofs and reasoning, with a focus on the differentiation involved and specific examples of input functions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster argues that the system is not time-invariant based on their proof, which shows that y_1(t) does not equal y(t+t_0) for a shifted input.
  • They provide a second proof using a specific input x(t) = t, demonstrating that y(t+2) does not equal y_1(t) for this case, reinforcing their claim that the system cannot be TI for arbitrary x(t).
  • Another participant agrees with the original poster's reasoning, stating that they see no issues with the proof that indicates the system is time-variant.
  • A third participant humorously comments on the potential consequences of reposting the question, indicating a light-hearted tone in the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on whether the system is time-invariant. The original poster believes it is not TI based on their proofs, while another participant supports this view. However, the discussion does not include any counterarguments or alternative proofs that might suggest the system is TI.

Contextual Notes

The proofs presented rely on specific assumptions about the input function x(t) and the differentiation process, which may not cover all possible cases or inputs. The discussion does not resolve these assumptions or explore all implications of time invariance.

WolfOfTheSteps
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Note: I posted this a month ago in the homework forum, but never got a reply. It really is an elementary question, and I think someone here might know the answer. (I hope I don't get an infraction for the re-post! If it's inappropriate, please delete.)

Homework Statement



Show that

y(t) = \frac{d}{dt}\left[e^{-t}x(t)\right]

is time invariant.

2. Relevant Information

I don't think this is TI! I'm told it is TI, but I think I proved that it is not TI! My proof is below. Am I wrong or is the question wrong in assuming that the system is TI?

The Attempt at a Solution



Let y_1 be the output when x(t+t_0) is the input, then:

y_1(t) = \frac{d}{dt}\left[e^{-t}x(t+t_0)\right]

but

y(t+t_0) = \frac{d}{dt}\left[e^{-(t+t_0)}x(t+t_0)\right] = e^{-t_0}\frac{d}{dt}\left[e^{-t}x(t+t_0)\right]

Therefore y_1(t) \neq y(t+t_0) and the system is not time invariant.

\Box

Also, just to make sure I wasn't missing some subtlety because of the differentiation I tried to prove this another way.

Since x(t) is arbitrary, I assumed x(t)=t, so that:

y(t)=\frac{d}{dt}[te^{-t}] = e^{-t}-te^{-t}

Now I time shift the system by 2:

y(t+2) = e^{-(t+2)}-(t+2)e^{-(t+2)}=e^{-2}\left[e^{-t}-(t+2)e^{-t}\right]

Now I let y_1(t) be the output when the input is x(t+2)=t+2:

y_1(t) = \frac{d}{dt}[(t+2)e^{-t}] = e^{-t}-(t+2)e^{-t}

Clearly, then, y(t+2)\neq y_1(t) and the system is not TI for x(t)=t, and hence cannot be TI for arbitrary x(t).

\Box

So, if it is TI, what am I doing wrong? And how would I prove that it is TI?
 
Last edited:
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WolfOfTheSteps said:
(I hope I don't get an infraction

Infraction?! You optimist! Nay! A banning, at the least! Begone, beast!

By the way, it's nice to see that you got your username fixed. :biggrin:
 
The first proof is a bit heavy for me at this time of night... but the second seems to me that you have correctly proven it time variant. I'm no genius though... just letting you know i can't see any problem with your reasoning ;)
 
Um, please note when the last post was dated before posting.
 

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