Is my unit step function correct for solving this differential equation?

In summary, the conversation was about solving a differential equation involving a unit step function. The solution involves finding the Laplace transform of the equation, and the issue mentioned is verifying the correct notation for the unit step function. The correct notation for the unit step function in this case is u(t)-u(t-1).
  • #1
gbuitkus
1
0

Homework Statement


y''-4y'-32y={1 when 0<=t<1 and 0 when 1<=t
y(0)=y'(0)=0


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


s2L(y) -4sL(y)-32 L(y)=u1(t)

I am just struggling to figure out if my unit step function is correct.

Solving for L(y) I get:
(e-s) / (s(s2 -4s-32))
but it says I am wrong so I am pretty sure I am doing something wrong with the unit step function
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
gbuitkus said:

Homework Statement


y''-4y'-32y={1 when 0<=t<1 and 0 when 1<=t
y(0)=y'(0)=0

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


s2L(y) -4sL(y)-32 L(y)=u1(t)

I am just struggling to figure out if my unit step function is correct.

Solving for L(y) I get:
(e-s) / (s(s2 -4s-32))
but it says I am wrong so I am pretty sure I am doing something wrong with the unit step function

You didn't explain what your notation ##u_1(t)## means. Is it ##u(t-1)##? What you want on the right side is ##u(t)-u(t-1)##.
 

Related to Is my unit step function correct for solving this differential equation?

1. What is the Laplace Unit Step function?

The Laplace Unit Step function, also known as the Heaviside step function, is a mathematical function commonly used in physics and engineering to represent a signal that switches on at a specific time and stays on thereafter.

2. How is the Laplace Unit Step function defined?

The Laplace Unit Step function is defined as:

u(t) = 0 for t < 0

u(t) = 1 for t ≥ 0

where t represents time.

3. What is the Laplace transform of the Unit Step function?

The Laplace transform of the Unit Step function is:

L(u(t)) = 1/s

where s is the complex frequency variable.

4. What is the significance of the Laplace Unit Step function in engineering?

The Laplace Unit Step function is often used in engineering to model and analyze systems with sudden changes or impulses, such as electrical circuits and control systems.

5. Can the Laplace Unit Step function be used to solve differential equations?

Yes, the Laplace Unit Step function can be used to solve differential equations through the process of Laplace transform. It helps to simplify the equations and make them easier to solve by transforming them into algebraic equations.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
167
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
432
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
351
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
729
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
299
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
835
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
270
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
357
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
359
Back
Top