Using Laplace Transforms to Solve ODE with Piecewise Forcing Function

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the ordinary differential equation (ODE) y'' + 4y' + 3y = f(t) using Laplace transforms, where the forcing function f(t) is defined piecewise as 1 for 0 ≤ t < 2, t² for 2 ≤ t < 3, and 0 for t ≥ 3. The integral definition of the Laplace Transform, F(s) = ∫^{∞}_{0}f(t)e^{-st} dt, is utilized to compute the Laplace Transform of f(t). Participants provide insights into the integration process and the formulation of the piecewise function, emphasizing the importance of correctly defining f(t) as a single piecewise function with multiple segments.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ordinary differential equations (ODEs)
  • Familiarity with Laplace transforms and their definitions
  • Knowledge of piecewise functions and their applications
  • Basic integration techniques in calculus
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Laplace transforms in solving ODEs
  • Learn how to derive the Laplace Transform of piecewise functions
  • Explore the method of integrating factors for first-order ODEs
  • Investigate the application of the Heaviside step function in piecewise-defined functions
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Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying differential equations, as well as engineers and physicists applying ODEs in their fields.

nobodyuknow
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Homework Statement



ODE: y'' + 4y' + 3y = f(t)
f(t) = (?? HELP - What's the mathematical term to describe these? I can't seem t o find it in my notes :cry: )
1, 0 ≤ t < 2
t², 2 ≤ t < 3
0, t ≥ 3

Write a brief description on how you would solve this ODE using Laplace transforms.

Also use the integral definition of Laplace Transforms to calculate the Laplace Transform of f(t).

Homework Equations



We know the Laplace Transform Definition is:
F(s) = ∫^{∞}_{0}f(t)e-st

The Attempt at a Solution



After integrating the f(t)'s I get...

0 + 1/s - ((e^-2s)/s) + (((4e^-2s) - (9e^-3s))/s) + (((4e^-2s) - (6e^-3s))/s^2) + (((2e^-2s) - (2e^-3s))/s^3)

This looks completely wrong, but, I really have little idea on how to do this. I don't have tutorials for at least a couple of days so I cannot ask my tutorer about it quite yet.

All help appreciated, thanks!
 
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##y''+4y'+3y=f(t),##

##f(t)=\begin{cases}1&0\le t<2\\ t^2&2\le t<3\\ 0&t\ge3\end{cases}##
 
Thanks for that.
 
The forcing function f(t) is composed of several piecewise functions.
 
I would say rather that f(t) is one piecewise defined function, that function having several pieces!
 
Could you possibly do this...
y'' + 4y' + 3y = f(t)
y'' + 3y' + y' + 3y = f(t)
d/dx [y' + 3y] + [y' + 3y] = f(t)
let u = y' + 3y
u' + u = f(t)

Would that be correct?
 
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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