Using Laplace Transforms to Solve ODE with Piecewise Forcing Function

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a second-order ordinary differential equation (ODE) of the form y'' + 4y' + 3y = f(t), where the forcing function f(t) is defined piecewise. The specific segments of f(t) are 1 for 0 ≤ t < 2, t² for 2 ≤ t < 3, and 0 for t ≥ 3. Participants are exploring the application of Laplace transforms to tackle this problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the nature of the forcing function, with some questioning the terminology used to describe piecewise functions. There are attempts to express the ODE in alternative forms, and one participant suggests a substitution to simplify the equation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing insights and clarifications about the piecewise nature of the function f(t). Some have provided alternative interpretations of the function, while others are exploring different approaches to rewriting the ODE. No consensus has been reached, and the exploration of ideas continues.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the absence of immediate access to tutorials or guidance, which may be influencing their attempts and questions. There is also a mention of uncertainty regarding the correctness of initial attempts at integrating the piecewise function.

nobodyuknow
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Homework Statement



ODE: y'' + 4y' + 3y = f(t)
f(t) = (?? HELP - What's the mathematical term to describe these? I can't seem t o find it in my notes :cry: )
1, 0 ≤ t < 2
t², 2 ≤ t < 3
0, t ≥ 3

Write a brief description on how you would solve this ODE using Laplace transforms.

Also use the integral definition of Laplace Transforms to calculate the Laplace Transform of f(t).

Homework Equations



We know the Laplace Transform Definition is:
F(s) = ∫^{∞}_{0}f(t)e-st

The Attempt at a Solution



After integrating the f(t)'s I get...

0 + 1/s - ((e^-2s)/s) + (((4e^-2s) - (9e^-3s))/s) + (((4e^-2s) - (6e^-3s))/s^2) + (((2e^-2s) - (2e^-3s))/s^3)

This looks completely wrong, but, I really have little idea on how to do this. I don't have tutorials for at least a couple of days so I cannot ask my tutorer about it quite yet.

All help appreciated, thanks!
 
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##y''+4y'+3y=f(t),##

##f(t)=\begin{cases}1&0\le t<2\\ t^2&2\le t<3\\ 0&t\ge3\end{cases}##
 
Thanks for that.
 
The forcing function f(t) is composed of several piecewise functions.
 
I would say rather that f(t) is one piecewise defined function, that function having several pieces!
 
Could you possibly do this...
y'' + 4y' + 3y = f(t)
y'' + 3y' + y' + 3y = f(t)
d/dx [y' + 3y] + [y' + 3y] = f(t)
let u = y' + 3y
u' + u = f(t)

Would that be correct?
 

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