Why can't I substitute a Laplace transform into an integration?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the incorrect application of Laplace transforms in solving a differential equation. The user initially miscalculated the derivative u'(t) and mistakenly used a definite integral for v=2/s² instead of the required indefinite integral. This error led to the loss of time dependence in the solution, resulting in an incorrect answer. The clarification provided emphasizes the importance of correctly distinguishing between definite and indefinite integrals in the context of Laplace transforms.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Laplace transforms and their applications in differential equations
  • Knowledge of calculus, specifically integration techniques
  • Familiarity with the concept of derivatives and their notation
  • Basic understanding of time-dependent functions in mathematical modeling
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the properties and applications of Laplace transforms in solving differential equations
  • Study the differences between definite and indefinite integrals in calculus
  • Practice calculating derivatives and their implications in mathematical problems
  • Explore examples of time-dependent functions and their transformations
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, engineering, and physics who are working with differential equations and Laplace transforms, as well as educators teaching these concepts.

hyphagon
Messages
7
Reaction score
0
Hi, I was given the attached question and have given my wrong attempt at the answer. I know how to work the answer out (also shown) but I would like to know why my first attempt is wrong.

Many Thanks
 

Attachments

  • Laplace question.png
    Laplace question.png
    26.5 KB · Views: 561
Physics news on Phys.org
First, you calculated u'(t) incorrectly. Second, when you said v=2/s2, you used the definite integral of dv/dt. You need to use the indefinite integral. You can't get rid of the t dependence.
 
Yup, I integrated it by mistake. That now makes it equal zero incidentally.

Awesome, Thanks for for that. Makes sense now.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K