Defining Laplace transforms and their complex values

In summary, the tutorial question is asking to compute the Laplace transform of cos(3t) without using the linearity theorem and to determine where the Laplace transform is defined in terms of complex values. Using the integral definition of a Laplace transform, the solution is s/[(s^2)+9] and it exists in a limit from 0 to b. The Laplace transform is not only defined for real numbers, but also for complex values. To double check the answer, the integral solution should match the solution using a standard Laplace table.
  • #1
chief10
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How to define Laplace transforms and their complex values?

Homework Statement



the tutorial question asks to compute the Laplace transform of cos(3t) without using linearity theorem

it then asks where the laplace transform is defined in terms of complex values

Homework Equations



L(f(t))=s/s^2+a^2

The Attempt at a Solution



now it's been a while since I did Laplace but what I get just from looking at the standard Laplace table is s/[(s^2)+9] obviously, is there something else I'm missing here in terms of linearity or?

I must also confess that i don't recall complex values relating to Laplace other than the fact that 's' is complex in the sense that it gives a+bi for instance. It's not defined just for {R} is it?


any pointers you could give me on this would be just great guys and girls! thanks a lot.

-chief10
 
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  • #2
no ideas anyone? :)
 
  • #3
no matter I worked it out

just have to use the integral definition of a Laplace Transform and work out for what values of s does it exist in a limit. Take a limit from 0 to b for instance.
 
  • #4


chief10 said:

Homework Statement



the tutorial question asks to compute the Laplace transform of cos(3t) without using linearity theorem

it then asks where the laplace transform is defined in terms of complex values

Homework Equations



L(f(t))=s/s^2+a^2

The Attempt at a Solution



now it's been a while since I did Laplace but what I get just from looking at the standard Laplace table is s/[(s^2)+9] obviously, is there something else I'm missing here in terms of linearity or?

I must also confess that i don't recall complex values relating to Laplace other than the fact that 's' is complex in the sense that it gives a+bi for instance. It's not defined just for {R} is it?any pointers you could give me on this would be just great guys and girls! thanks a lot.

-chief10
SOLVEDI worked this out. Just have to use the integral definition of a Laplace Transform and work out for what values of s does it exist in a limit. Take a limit from 0 to b for instance and solve the integral and sub in the nodes. To double check your answer, quickly solve the f(t) using your standard laplace table, make sure your integral solved answer is the same and works with your applied limits.

For anyone that's interested :)
 

FAQ: Defining Laplace transforms and their complex values

What is a Laplace transform?

A Laplace transform is a mathematical operation that converts a function from the time domain to the frequency domain. It is commonly used in engineering and science to solve differential equations and analyze systems.

How is a Laplace transform defined?

A Laplace transform is defined as the integral of a function multiplied by an exponential term, where the variable of integration is the complex variable s.

What are the complex values in a Laplace transform?

The complex values in a Laplace transform are represented by the complex variable s. This variable has a real part and an imaginary part, which correspond to the frequency and damping ratio of the transformed function, respectively.

How are Laplace transforms used in solving differential equations?

Laplace transforms are used to convert differential equations in the time domain to algebraic equations in the frequency domain. This allows for easier manipulation and solution of the equations.

Are there any limitations to using Laplace transforms?

One limitation of using Laplace transforms is that they only work for linear systems. They also assume that the system is initially at rest, meaning that there are no initial conditions present.

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