Laplace transform of step function

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on finding the Laplace transform of the function f(t) defined as 0 for t<2 and (t-2)^2 for t>=2. The user expresses uncertainty about whether they have correctly formulated f(t) and how to proceed with the calculation. A suggestion is made to use the definition of the Laplace transform, starting the integral at t=2 and applying a change of variables. Additionally, integrating by parts is recommended to solve the integral. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly defining the function before proceeding with the transform.
chota
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this isn't homework, this is just general knowledge and i can't figure it out.. please help, thx

Find the Laplace transform of the given function:

f(t) = { 0 t<2, (t-2)^2 t>=2

I tried working it out and this is where i get stuck

f(t) = (t-2)^2 * u(t-2)

I am not sure if I got the write function for f(t), but if I did, I am not sure how to go on with solving this.
Any help is appreciated, Thank YOu
Chota
 
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Are you trying to put this into a form that you can look it up in a table? Your statement "I am not sure if I got the right function for f(t)" is confusing since it's already given.

Seems to me that you can do this by direct substutition into the definition of the transform:

<br /> F(s) = \int_0^\infty e^{-st} f(t) dt<br />

put in your f(t), starting your integral at t=2, make a t-2 change of vars, and integrate by parts a couple times.
 
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