What does sigma represent in the s-plane of Laplace transforms?

[gtr32x]

Hi all,

I'm studying Laplace transform right now. And I am trying to understand the s variable in the s-plane. I found online that s = σ + jω where ω is the frequency and σ is the decay rate. Frequency is pretty easy to understand but I can't seem to find anywhere that explains what is the decay rate. Can anybody help please?

Thanks!

 

[Simon Bridge]

Welcome to PF;
Have a look at how the variable s is used ... what happens when you vary that sigma?