Laplace Transform of the product of two functions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the Laplace transform of the product of an exponential function and a sine function, specifically L[(e^-3t)(sin2t)]. Participants explore methods to compute this transform, addressing challenges and uncertainties in the integration process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about how to compute the Laplace transform of the product of an exponential and sine function, noting that there is no direct entry in their table of transforms for such a product.
  • Another participant suggests that the Laplace transform of e^{-at}f(t) can be computed by shifting the variable, indicating that the transform of e^{-3t}sin(2t) can be approached by recognizing f(t) as sin(2t).
  • There is a discussion about the complexity of the integral that arises when applying the definition of the Laplace transform, with one participant expressing concern about the difficulty of solving the resulting integral.
  • Participants reference Euler's formula and the standard Laplace transform of sin(ωt) to clarify the approach, but there remains uncertainty about how to handle the integration effectively.
  • One participant acknowledges understanding the first part of the problem but expresses confusion regarding the second part, indicating a lack of clarity on the overall process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best method to solve the integral, and there are varying levels of understanding regarding the application of the Laplace transform to the given functions. Some participants agree on the theoretical approach, while others remain uncertain about the practical steps involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need for integration by parts and the potential complexity of the integral, but do not resolve the specific steps or assumptions required for a complete solution.

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Hello,

I am trying to figure out in my notes how my professor did

L[(e^-3t)(sin2t)] = 2/(s+3)^2 +4

I think she just did it in her head and wrote it, so I don't actually know how to solve it. I am looking at my table of laplace transforms and there is none for a product of an exponential and sin/cos.

I tried solving this with the definition, and I came across a integration by parts that looks particularly nasty, not even sure if solvable.

Anyways, can anyone point me in the right direction to this one? I know the product of a laplace transforms is not the laplace of the products, so that's out.
 
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You're over-thinking it. If ##\tilde{f}(s)## is the Laplace transform of ##f(t)## then
##\mathcal{L}({e^{-at}f(t)}) = \int_0^\infty e^{-st} \, e^{-at} \, f(t) \, dt = \int_0^\infty e^{-(s+a)t}\,f(t)\,dt = \tilde{f}(s+a)##
 
I know that one, but then I get a cos and exponential in the same integral, and I don't think there is a good way to go about solving that, right?

Excuse me for not knowing latex..but what are you saying is f(t)? Just the sin2t, or the entire thing? Then once you get there..is that thing solved by parts? If so, I got it and it looks really nasty to solve..not eloquent
 
Woopydalan said:
I know that one, but then I get a cos and exponential in the same integral, and I don't think there is a good way to go about solving that, right?

Of course there is, every first year calculus course covers Euler's formula.

Excuse me for not knowing latex..but what are you saying is f(t)? Just the sin2t, or the entire thing?

##f(t) = \sin 2t## so ##\tilde{f}(s) = \frac{2}{s^2+2^2}##.
Also ##a = 3##.

Then once you get there..is that thing solved by parts? If so, I got it and it looks really nasty to solve..not eloquent

This is why I'm saying you are over-thinking it. Write out the definition of the Laplace transform, and replace "s" with "s+a".

Edit:
Wait a sec. Do understand either of the following:
  1. The Laplace transform of sin ωt is equal to ω/(s^2 + ω^2).
  2. The Laplace transform of e^{-at}f(t) is equal to ##\tilde{f}(s+a)##.
 
Last edited:
Ok allow me to go about this

L[f(t)] = ∫e^-st f(t)dt

f(t) = e^(-3t)sin(2t)

∫e^-(st) e^(-3t)sin(2t) dt
=∫e^-[(s+3)t]sin(2t)dt

At this point I am not seeing how to solve that integral
 
The problem has two parts that are proved separately: the sine and the phase shift. Please read my edit in post 4. Do you understand how to do one or the other?
 
I understand 1, but not sure about 2. In fact I definitely don't understand 2
 
Okay, you know the definition of the Laplace:
##\tilde{f}(s) = \int_0^\infty e^{-st} \, f(t) \, dt##
Then replacing "s" with "s+a" we have
##\tilde{f}(s+a) = \int_0^\infty e^{-(s+a)t} \, f(t) \, dt##
Does that make sense?
 
yes, got it
 

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