Damnit I am terrible at Partial Fractions

In summary, the conversation discusses solving a differential equation using Laplace Transform and simplifying the resulting expression. The speaker is unsure about how to solve for the constants and asks for a quick method. They eventually realize that breaking up the expression may make it easier to simplify.
  • #1
Saladsamurai
3,020
7

Homework Statement



Solve y"+4y'=sin 3t subject to y(0)=y'(0)=0 using Laplace Transform




The Attempt at a Solution



So I got:

[tex]s^2Y(s)-sy(0)-y'(0)+4[sY(s)-y(0)]=\frac{3}{s^2+9}[/tex]

[tex]\Rightarrow Y(s)=\frac{3}{(s^2+9)(s^2+4)}[/tex]

Now it looks like two irreducible quadratics, which I know should not be too bad, but I have never dealt with more than one.

Now am I correct to say that

[tex]\frac{3}{(s^2+9)(s^2+4)}=\frac{Ax+B}{s^2+9}+\frac{Cx+D}{s^2+4}[/tex]

This is where I think I have the problem... the notation.

Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Given this transform:

[tex]s^2Y(s)-sy(0)-y'(0)+4[sY(s)-y(0)]=\frac{3}{s^2+9}[/tex] ,

shouldn't this be

[tex]\Rightarrow Y(s)=\frac{3}{(s^2+9)(s^2+4*s*)}[/tex]


Also, when you go to solve the partial fractions, you want to have 's' in the numerators:

[tex]\frac{3}{(s^2+9)(s^2+4s)}=\frac{As+B}{s^2+9}+...[/tex][/QUOTE]
 
  • #3
Oh crap...

Yes, so I get:

[tex]\frac{As+B}{s^2+9}+\frac{C}{s}+\frac{D}{s+4}[/tex]

Thanks! !
 
  • #4
Saladsamurai said:
Oh crap...

Yes, so I get:

[tex]\frac{As+B}{s^2+9}+\frac{C}{s}+\frac{D}{s+4}[/tex]

Thanks! !


Anyone know of a quick way to do this? I let s=0 and -4 to solve for C and D... but what about A and B? Do I have to distribute this whole mess out? Or is there a more expedient way?
 
  • #5
Guess not.

So now I have

[tex]Y(s)=\frac{-4/75s-3/25}{s^2+9}+\frac{1}{12s}+\frac{3}{100(s+4)}[/tex]

How do I simplify the 1st term?

I can see that it looks like cosine. But...How do I get rid of all the crap?

Hmm I guess I could...Oh! Break it up! I think that will work!
 

FAQ: Damnit I am terrible at Partial Fractions

What are partial fractions?

Partial fractions are a mathematical technique used to simplify and solve complex algebraic expressions involving fractions.

Why are partial fractions difficult?

Partial fractions can be difficult because they involve breaking down a complex fraction into simpler fractions and then solving for the unknown variables.

What types of equations can be solved using partial fractions?

Partial fractions are typically used to solve integrals, but they can also be used to solve linear and quadratic equations involving fractions.

What is the process for solving partial fractions?

The process for solving partial fractions involves breaking down the original fraction into simpler fractions using partial fraction decomposition, setting up equations to solve for the unknown coefficients, and then substituting the values back into the original equation to solve for the variables.

How can I improve my skills at solving partial fractions?

To become better at solving partial fractions, it is important to practice regularly and familiarize yourself with the various methods and techniques used. You can also seek guidance from a tutor or use online resources for additional practice problems and explanations.

Similar threads

Back
Top