Laplace Transform (Should be easy)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the Laplace Transform to solve a second-order differential equation, specifically y'' - y' - 6y = 0, with initial conditions y(0) = 2 and y'(0) = -1. Participants explore the process of transforming the equation and express concerns about the correctness of their manipulations and the factoring of terms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the Laplace Transform to the given differential equation but questions whether they have made an error in their algebraic manipulation, particularly regarding the treatment of the "6" in the equation. Some participants question the factoring of the denominator and the implications for further steps, such as partial fraction decomposition. Another participant shares a separate Laplace Transform problem and reflects on their own understanding of the transformation process.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing feedback on each other's attempts and clarifying points of confusion. There is no explicit consensus on the original poster's approach, but suggestions for re-evaluating specific terms and factoring are present. The second participant's inquiry about their own Laplace Transform problem indicates a collaborative atmosphere, with participants helping each other navigate their challenges.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of needing to use the Laplace Transform specifically, and there are indications of confusion regarding the algebraic steps involved in the transformation process. The original poster expresses concern about potential errors in their calculations, while others are also grappling with similar concepts.

Saladsamurai
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[SOLVED] Laplace Transform (Should be easy)

Homework Statement


I know there are other ways to solve this, but I HAVE to use Laplace Transformy''-y'-6y=0 where y(0)=2 and y'(0)=-1

The Attempt at a Solution



Written as Laplace:

y''-y'-6y=0

[tex]\Rightarrow s^2*Y(s)-s*y(0)-y'(0)-s*Y(s)+y(0)-6*Y(s)=0[/tex]

[tex]\Rightarrow s^2*Y(s)-2s+1-s*Y(s)+2-Y(s)=0[/tex]

[tex]\Rightarrow s^2*Y(s)-s*Y(s)-Y(s)=-3+2s[/tex]

[tex]\Rightarow Y(s)=\frac{-3+2s}{s^2-s-1}[/tex]

Am I missing something? The numerator and denominator don't factor. Is a separation by partial fractions my next step? Or did I miss something that would make it way easier?

Thanks
 
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What happened to the "6" on 6Y(x)?

s2- s- 6 certainly does factor!
 
Splendid! Now too bad the numerator wasn't -3+s then I would be in business.
 
I'm also having a problem with laplace transforms.

I have an equation in the form

I = [tex]\frac{1}{s}[/tex] - [tex]\frac{11}{3s+2}[/tex]

Does this transform to

I(t) = 1-11[tex]e^{-2t}[/tex]

or do i need to try and do something with the 3?

EDIT:
I think I just got it, sorry for hi-jacking you're thread.
I(t) = 1 - 11/3 ([tex]e^{-2/3t}[/tex])
 
Last edited:
ineedmunchies said:
I'm also having a problem with laplace transforms.

I have an equation in the form

I = [tex]\frac{1}{s}[/tex] - [tex]\frac{11}{3s+2}[/tex]

Does this transform to

I(t) = 1-11[tex]e^{-2t}[/tex]

or do i need to try and do something with the 3?

EDIT:
I think I just got it, sorry for hi-jacking you're thread.
I(t) = 1 - 11/3 ([tex]e^{-2/3t}[/tex])


It's cool. And you got it right it looks like!
 

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