Solving mx'' + cx' + kx = 0 Using Laplace

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The discussion focuses on solving the differential equation mx'' + cx' + kx = 0 using the Laplace transform, with initial conditions x(0)=0 and x'(0)=0. The user demonstrates their progress by transforming the equation into the Laplace domain and identifying the characteristic roots based on the condition c^2-4km > 0. They express confusion about the uniqueness of the solution, questioning if there are other solutions besides the trivial one. It is clarified that, due to the non-zero coefficient of x'', the problem indeed has a unique solution, which is x(t) = 0. The conversation emphasizes the importance of showing work to facilitate learning and problem-solving.
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Hello , can anyone help me solve this using laplace ?

mx'' + cx' + kx = 0 , x(0)=0 , x'(0)=0 , m > 0 , c > 0 , k > 0 and c^2-4km > 0


thanks in advance for your answer.(first time using this forum)
 
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Usually, we like to see what efforts have been put into a solution. It helps us know where you are stuck; it also makes sure we aren't doing all the work for you, which would make the learning process more difficult.

So please, show what you've done towards a solution so far.
 
Hello again and thanks for your answer .
This is what I got so far :

mx''+cx'+kx=0 →
m[s^2 X(s) + sx(0) -x'(0)] + c[sX(s) - x(0)] + kX(s)=0 → ##x(0)=0 , x'(0)=0## →
X(s)(ms^2+cs+k)=0 →
since c^2-4km > 0 there are 2 roots a1 and a2.
Therefore X(s)(s-a1)(s-a2)=0

and that's where I'm stuck. I know that X(s)=0 is a solution but isn't there anything else?
(going to sleep now 3:10 am is too late for D.E.)
 
Because the coefficient of x'' is not zero, this problem has a unique solution.
It is obvious that x identically equal to 0 satisfies this equation so that is the solution.
 
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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