Laplace DE Problem: Proving Laplace Delta(t-2)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the Laplace transform of the Dirac delta function, specifically δ(t - 2). Participants are exploring the properties of Laplace transforms and their application to delta functions within the context of differential equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to derive the Laplace transform of δ(t - 2) and are questioning the relationship between the delta function and the unit step function. There is also a focus on the defining properties of the Dirac delta function and how they apply to the Laplace transform.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the properties of the delta function and its Laplace transform. Some guidance has been offered regarding applying the defining property of the delta function to the Laplace transform integral, but no consensus has been reached on the proof itself.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the proof of the Laplace transform of the delta function is required for an upcoming exam, and there is a sense of urgency to understand the concept fully, as the instructor has not provided a complete solution.

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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations



Laplace's transforms.

The Attempt at a Solution



Okay, so applying the Laplace on both sides yields:

[itex]s^2Y(s) - sy(0) - y'(0) + 2sY(s) - 2y(0) + 10Y(s) = ? + 13 / s - 1[/itex]

Is [itex]e^{-2s} / s[/itex] the Laplace [itex]\delta(t - 2)[/itex]? Our instructor gave us the result of the Lapace but he did not prove it. The only thing he gave us was that the Laplace of [itex]f(t - a)\delta(t - a) = e^{-as}F(s)[/itex]. Can someone point me on how to prove this? It seems our instructor told us that we need to know the proof without him giving it to us. I know that this unit step function is defined to be 0 when 0 <= t < 2 and 1 when t >= 2.
 
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Are you sure ##\delta(t)## is the unit step function? It typically denotes the Dirac delta function.
 
Yes yes. I mixed up the function. Sorry about that.

So is the Laplace of [itex]\delta(t - 2)[/itex] typically [itex]e^{-2s} / s[/itex]?
 
Which function are you talking about? If it's the delta function, then no, that's not correct. If it's the unit step, then that's right.
 
The delta function. Then is it simply [itex]e^{-2s}[/itex]?

If so, how to prove it starting with [itex]\int^\infty_0 e^{-st}\delta(t - a)dt = e^{as}[/itex]? The proof is apparently required for our exam yet our instructor failed to provide the solution.
 
What's the defining property of the Dirac delta function?
 
..that the [itex]\int^{a+e}_{a-e} f(t)\delta(t - a)dt = f(a)[/itex] for [itex]e > 0[/itex]?

I appreciate your patience but I'm relatively 'new' to this concept.
 
Yup. Just apply that to the Laplace transform integral you have.
 

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