Laplace Transform Diff EQ Help Request

In summary, The conversation is about trying to solve a vehicle motion dynamics problem by finding the velocity history of the vehicle subject to varying accelerations. The equation involves a velocity squared term and the person is looking for suggestions on how to solve it using the Laplace Transform but is having trouble finding the appropriate term. It is suggested that the Laplace Transform may not be appropriate for this problem due to the non-linearity of the equation.
  • #1
keebler71
1
0
Ok...so this isn't homework (well past that at 39!) but I'm trying to brush off the old cobwebs and solve a vehicle motion problem. Specically, I'm trying to find the

Homework Statement



Ok...so this isn't homework (well past that at 39!) but I'm trying to brush off the old cobwebs and solve a vehicle motion dynamics problem. Specifically I’m trying to solve for the velocity history of the vehicle subject to accelerations that vary with the velocity and velocity squared. Eventually I’ll add a forcing term and I’d like to solve this using the Laplace Transform.

Homework Equations



Here is a generalized version of the equation:

v’ (t) = k1*v(t)^2 + k2^v(t) + k3

The Attempt at a Solution



The left side is easy:
L[v’(t)] = sV(s) - v(0)

But I’ve been stumped by the right side. Specifically, I am having trouble finding the L[v(t)^2] term. I’ve tried substituting into the definition of the LT and integrating by parts but not luck so far and can't find an similar example on the web or in a table... Any suggestions?
 
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  • #2
I don't think the Laplace transform is appropriate for this problem because you don't have a linear differential equation due to the v2 term. The differential equation is separable, though.
 

Related to Laplace Transform Diff EQ Help Request

1. What is the Laplace Transform?

The Laplace Transform is a mathematical tool used to solve differential equations. It converts a function of time into a function of complex frequency, making it easier to solve certain types of differential equations.

2. How is the Laplace Transform used to solve differential equations?

The Laplace Transform is used to transform a differential equation into an algebraic equation, which can be solved using standard mathematical techniques. Once the solution is found, the inverse Laplace Transform can be used to convert it back to the original function.

3. When should I use the Laplace Transform to solve a differential equation?

The Laplace Transform is most useful for solving linear, constant coefficient differential equations. It is also helpful when dealing with initial value problems, as it can provide a general solution that can be adjusted to fit specific initial conditions.

4. What are the benefits of using the Laplace Transform to solve differential equations?

The Laplace Transform offers several benefits, including simplifying the solving process, providing a general solution that can be adjusted for specific initial conditions, and being applicable to a wide range of differential equations.

5. Are there any limitations to using the Laplace Transform for differential equations?

While the Laplace Transform is a powerful tool, it does have some limitations. It is not suitable for solving non-linear or variable coefficient differential equations. Additionally, it may not always provide a solution that is easy to interpret or apply in real-world situations.

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