Need Help with Laplace Homework Equations: Solving for Capacitor Voltage

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a capacitor voltage equation using Laplace transforms in the context of circuit analysis. The user derives the equation for capacitor voltage, e0, using Kirchhoff's current law and attempts to simplify it through algebraic manipulation. The user identifies discrepancies in their final answer compared to the expected result, specifically in the terms involving R1 and R2. The correct expression for e0 is confirmed to be e0 = ( A )/( R1 + R2 )*( R2 - R1*ε1*t, highlighting a misunderstanding in the application of the Laplace transform.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Kirchhoff's current law
  • Familiarity with Laplace transforms
  • Knowledge of capacitor equations, specifically i=C(de/dt)
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
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  • Study the application of Laplace transforms in circuit analysis
  • Review capacitor voltage equations and their derivations
  • Learn about partial fraction decomposition in Laplace transforms
  • Explore common mistakes in circuit analysis involving resistors and capacitors
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Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and anyone involved in analyzing capacitor circuits using Laplace transforms.

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Homework Statement



7_12.png


Homework Equations



For a capacitor: i=C(de/dt)

The Attempt at a Solution



Using Kirchhoff's current law at the note above the resistor R2 I get the following equation, which I believe is right:

C(e0' - ei') + (e0 - ei)/R1 + e0/R2 = 0

Then, since the source has a constant voltage of A, I set ei' = 0 and ei = A and use Laplace to find the eo(t)

e0' + e0( 1/(C*R1) + 1/(C*R2) ) = A/(C*R1)

to facilitate the algebra:

1/(C*R1) + 1/(C*R2) = ( R1 + R2 )/( C*R1*R2 ) = ε1
A/( C*R1 ) = ε2

Then,

sE0 - E0(0) + (ε1)E0 = (ε2)/s

=> E0(0) = 0

E0( s + (ε1) ) = (ε2)/s

using partial fractions:

E0 = (ε2)/( s( s + (ε1) ) ) = A/s + B/( s+(ε1) )

A = ε2/ε1 and B = -ε2/ε1

ε2/ε1 = ( A*R2 )/( R1 + R2 )

E0 = (ε2/ε1)/s - (ε2/ε1)/( s + ε1 )

e0 = (ε2/ε1) - (ε2/ε1)e^(-ε1*t)

e0 = ( A )/( R1 + R2 )*( R2 - R2*ε1*t )

But I know that the answer to this problem is:

e0 = ( A )/( R1 + R2 )*( R2 - R1*ε1*t )

What am I doing wrong? Thanks in advance for any help!
 
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Sorry I am just trying to be consistent with the problem statement. Maybe I posted in the wrong forum (although my question is related to Laplace and not the circuit itself), maybe a moderator can move this to Homework & Coursework Questions > Engineering, Comp Sci, & Technology ?

Thanks.
 

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