Finding the Charging Equation of a Capacitor Using Laplace Transform

In summary, the conversation involves using the Laplace transform to find the charging equation of a capacitor with an initial voltage already on the capacitor. The equations and attempts at a solution are provided, with a mistake in taking the Laplace transform of dVc/dt being pointed out and corrected.
  • #1
bitrex
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Homework Statement


I'm trying to use the Laplace transform to find the charging equation of a capacitor with an initial voltage already on the capacitor.

Homework Equations



[tex]V_i = RC\frac{dVc}{dt} + V_c[/tex]

The initial condition of Vc will be [tex]\lambda[/tex].

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]V_i(s) = sRC*V_c(s) + V_c(s) - \lambda[/tex]

Vi will be a step function of magnitude V, so

[tex]\frac{V_i}{s} + \lambda = (sRC + 1)V_c(s)[/tex]

[tex]V_c(s) = \frac{V}{s(sRC+1)} + \frac{\lambda}{sRC+1} [/tex]

So using a table of Laplace transforms I get:

[tex]V_c(t) = V_i(1-e^{\frac{-t}{RC}}) + \frac{\lambda}{RC}(e^{\frac{-t}{RC}})[/tex]

The problem is that this doesn't seem to agree with the formula I've seen, it's close but lambda shouldn't be divided by RC. I'm wondering how I went wrong? Thanks for any advice.
 
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  • #2
Your mistake when you took the Laplace transform of dVc/dt:

[tex]L[RC V']=RC L[V']=RC(sV(s)-\lambda)[/tex]
 
  • #3
Whoops! Thanks for the catch...:redface:
 

FAQ: Finding the Charging Equation of a Capacitor Using Laplace Transform

What is the Laplace transform?

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

What is an initial value problem (IVP)?

An initial value problem is a type of differential equation that involves finding a function that satisfies the equation and also satisfies a set of initial conditions, usually in the form of specified values at a given time.

How is the Laplace transform used to solve IVPs?

The Laplace transform is used to convert the differential equation into an algebraic equation, which can then be solved for the unknown function. After the solution is found, the inverse Laplace transform is used to convert the function back into the time domain.

What are the advantages of using the Laplace transform to solve IVPs?

The Laplace transform can often simplify the process of solving differential equations, making it easier to find a solution. It can also be used to solve a wide range of problems, including those with discontinuous or non-analytic functions.

Are there any limitations to using the Laplace transform for solving IVPs?

The Laplace transform may not be suitable for all types of differential equations, particularly those with complex or oscillatory solutions. It also requires knowledge of certain properties and techniques, making it more challenging for some users.

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