How to Solve a Laplace Transform Problem with Dirac Delta Function?

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In summary, the problem is to find the solution for y in the equation y''+9y=\delta(t-\pi) with initial conditions y(0) = y'(0) = 1 using Laplace transforms. The approach is to transform each term individually and then solve for F(s) by adding them together due to the linearity of the Laplace Transform. The inverse Laplace transform may be required for the resulting function, and some formulae such as L[y^{(n)}] = s^n L(y) - s^{n-1}y(0) - s^{n-2}y'(0) - ... - y^{(n-1)}(0) and L[\delta(t-a
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Homework Statement


Given y''+9y=\delta(t-\pi)
y(0) = y'(0) = 1

Homework Equations



Obtain y = ...

The Attempt at a Solution



I have tried to Laplace transform the RHS and the LHS
But I am not sure how to do it. Please help!
 
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  • #2
Here's the Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laplace_transform. You can just transform each entry (y'', 9y, etc.) individually and add them together because of the linearity of the Laplace Transform. Now, the Laplace transform of delta(t-C) for some constant C is just exp(-Cs). Plug all of this in and solve for F(s). For the resulting function, take the inverse Laplace transform (which may be slightly more difficult... you may have to use convolutions, etc.)
 
  • #3
Here are some formulae to start you off:

[tex]L[y^{(n)}] = s^n L(y) - s^{n-1}y(0) - s^{n-2}y'(0) - ... - y^{(n-1)}(0)[/tex]
[tex]L[\delta(t-a)] = e^{-as} [/tex]

As for the resulting L(y) expression, you only need know the Laplace transform of cos wt, sin wt. and u(t-a)f(t-a) to solve for y in the time-domain.
 

1. What is a Laplace transform problem?

A Laplace transform problem is a mathematical problem that involves the use of the Laplace transform, a mathematical tool that transforms a function of time into a function of complex frequency. It is commonly used in engineering and physics to solve differential equations and analyze systems in the frequency domain.

2. How is a Laplace transform problem solved?

To solve a Laplace transform problem, the function of time is first transformed using the Laplace transform formula. This results in a new function of complex frequency. The transformed function can then be manipulated algebraically to solve for the desired variable or to simplify the problem. The inverse Laplace transform is then applied to the solution to obtain the final answer in the time domain.

3. What are the advantages of using the Laplace transform in problem-solving?

The Laplace transform allows for the conversion of differential equations into algebraic equations, which can be easier to solve. It also simplifies complex problems by reducing them to simpler forms. Additionally, the use of the Laplace transform can provide insights into the behavior of a system in the frequency domain, which may not be easily observable in the time domain.

4. What are some common applications of Laplace transform problems?

Laplace transform problems are commonly used in engineering and physics to analyze systems in the frequency domain, such as electrical circuits, control systems, and mechanical systems. They are also used in signal processing, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics.

5. Are there any limitations to using the Laplace transform in problem-solving?

While the Laplace transform is a powerful tool, it is not suitable for all types of problems. It is primarily used for linear time-invariant systems and may not be applicable to nonlinear or time-variant problems. In some cases, the inverse Laplace transform may also be difficult to calculate analytically, requiring the use of numerical methods.

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