Differential Equations with Discontinuous Forcing Functions

In summary, the conversation discusses solving an initial-value problem involving the second derivative of a function and a step function. The Laplace transform is used to simplify the problem, but the solution given in the back of the book is different from the attempted solution. The individual realizes their mistake and will post a corrected solution.
  • #1
_N3WTON_
351
3

Homework Statement


Solve the given initial-value problem.
[itex] y'' = 1 - u(t-1) [/itex]
[itex] y(0) = 0 [/itex]
[itex] y'(0) = 0 [/itex]

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


First I took the Laplace transform of both sides:
[itex] \mathcal{L}(y'') = \mathcal{L}(1 - u(t-1)) [/itex]
[itex] s^{2}Y(s) - sy(0) - y'(0) = \mathcal{L}(1) - \mathcal{L}(u(t-1)) [/itex]
[itex] s^{2}Y(s) = \frac{1-e^{s}}{s} [/itex]
[itex] s^{2}Y(s) = (1-e^{s})\frac{1}{s} [/itex]
[itex] Y(s) = (1-e^{s})\frac{1}{s^{3}} [/itex]
At this point I am sort of stuck, the solution given in the back of the book is : [itex] \frac{1}{2}t^{2} - \frac{1}{2}u(t-1)(t-1)^{2} [/itex]
I'm having a hard time seeing how my work is going to end up as the solution given, so I am thinking maybe I didn't do something right here..
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I think I may have figured out what I was doing wrong, I forgot to factor my answer...I'll post a solution momentarily...
 
  • #3
Ok, so did figure out what I was doing wrong...I'm sorry if I've wasted anyone's time
 

FAQ: Differential Equations with Discontinuous Forcing Functions

What are differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions?

Differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions are a type of differential equation in which the function that drives the behavior of the system is not continuous. This means that there are abrupt changes or jumps in the function at certain points, which can make the solution of the differential equation more complicated.

Why are differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions important?

Differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions are important because they can model many real-world phenomena, such as electrical circuits, mechanical systems, and population dynamics. They also allow for the study of complex systems that cannot be described by traditional differential equations with continuous forcing functions.

How do you solve differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions?

The solution of a differential equation with a discontinuous forcing function typically involves breaking the problem into different intervals, where the function is continuous, and solving the differential equation separately for each interval. Then, the solutions are combined using certain conditions, such as continuity or differentiability, at the points where the function is discontinuous.

What are some common techniques for solving differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions?

Some common techniques for solving differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions include the Laplace transform, the method of step functions, and the method of undetermined coefficients. Each of these methods has its advantages and is better suited for certain types of problems.

What are some applications of differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions?

Differential equations with discontinuous forcing functions have many applications in science, engineering, and economics. They are used to model systems with sudden changes in behavior or to analyze the stability of systems with discontinuous elements. Some specific examples include modeling the spread of diseases, predicting stock market crashes, and designing control systems for robots.

Back
Top