How is the expression for V(x) plotted using singularity functions?

In summary, the conversation is about understanding how the expression for V(x) is plotted, specifically in the green region shown on a diagram. The process involves summing the dotted curves in that region, resulting in a horizontal line at +16. There is also mention of another question about getting V(x)=0 at x=6, but it is unclear what the question is referring to. The conversation ends with a request for additional details and an explanation of the symbols used in the diagram.
  • #1
princejan7
93
0

Homework Statement



Can someone explain how the expression for V(x) is plotted?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I understand the plots for the dotted lines but not how they got the actual plot for V(x)
 

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  • #2
It's been awhile since I did this but I think you just sum the dotted curves region by region.. I'll do the region shown in green on my copy of your diagram..

At the start of the region you have..

+8 from (a)
-32 from (b)
+0 from (c)
+40 from (d)
= +16

Then at the end/right you have

+8 from (a)
-48 from (b)
+16 from (c)
+ 40 from (d)
= +16

So in that region the result is a horizontal line at +16.
 

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  • #3
CWatters said:
It's been awhile since I did this but I think you just sum the dotted curves region by region.. I'll do the region shown in green on my copy of your diagram..

At the start of the region you have..

+8 from (a)
-32 from (b)
+0 from (c)
+40 from (d)
= +16

Then at the end/right you have

+8 from (a)
-48 from (b)
+16 from (c)
+ 40 from (d)
= +16

So in that region the result is a horizontal line at +16.

thanks, I have another question:


at x=6, I'm supposed to be getting V(x)=0 but summing the dotted curves, I get

(23/4) -3(6) +3(3) + (1/6)(6^2) - (1/6)(3^2) + 2(3) + (7/4)
=9
 

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  • #4
thanks, I have another question
Does that mean you think the exercise has been answered properly ? I think I see an ans (2) on the picture, but I have no idea what the question is!
By the way: read the guidelines and fill in the template. Include an explanation of what <> [ ] and the superscripts 0 and 1 mean. That way others can read what this is about!

You then post another question: "I'm supposed to be getting V(x)=0". Well, I get that too, but just by deciphering the funny code these authors use to indicate intervals and to describe V. Not by dallying around with 23/4 and all kinds of other fractions. What is this ? Where do you get these dashed lines from? What do they represent ?
 
  • #5
from those lines. Can someone please clarify?The expression for V(x) is plotted by using the values of x and the corresponding values of V(x) to create a graph. The dotted lines represent the values of V(x) at different points along the x-axis. To get the actual plot for V(x), these points are connected with a continuous line, creating a curve that represents the function V(x). This curve can then be analyzed and studied to understand the behavior of V(x) at different values of x. It is important to note that the plot of V(x) is just a visual representation of the function and does not necessarily show all the details or characteristics of the function. It is always important to also consider the mathematical expression for V(x) and any other relevant equations or principles when analyzing a plot. I hope this helps clarify the process of plotting singularity functions.
 

FAQ: How is the expression for V(x) plotted using singularity functions?

What is a singularity function?

A singularity function is a mathematical function that has a value of either zero or infinity at a specific point, called the singularity point. It is often used to model discontinuities or abrupt changes in a system.

How do you plot a singularity function?

To plot a singularity function, you first need to identify the singularity point and the value of the function at that point. Then, you can plot the function as a vertical line at the singularity point with a height of the function's value at that point.

What are some common types of singularity functions?

Some common types of singularity functions include the Heaviside step function, Dirac delta function, and the ramp function. These functions are often used in engineering and physics to model real-world systems.

How are singularity functions used in real-world applications?

Singularity functions are used in a variety of real-world applications, such as signal processing, control systems, and circuit analysis. They allow for the modeling of discontinuities and abrupt changes in systems, which can help engineers and scientists better understand and analyze complex systems.

Can singularity functions be used to model continuous functions?

Yes, singularity functions can be used to model continuous functions by approximating them with a series of singularity functions. This technique is often used in numerical methods for solving differential equations or other complex mathematical problems.

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