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 Laplace Transforms and the Heaviside Function
(mα+hs)Smart Workshop
Semester 2, 2016

Geoff Coates

These slides provide an overview of the Laplace Transforms section of MATH1002, in

particular their use in solving ODE’s and Heaviside functions.They are designed to assist
your understanding of this topic but are not a resource provided by your lecturer.

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What can (mα+hs)Smart do for you?

Online Stuff Drop-in Study Sessions

presentation slides from Monday, Wednesday, Friday,
workshops on many topics 10am-12pm, Ground Floor
practice exercises Barry J Marshall Library,
teaching weeks and study
short videos
breaks.
and more!

Email: geoff.coates@uwa.edu.au
Workshops
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See our current
Got a question?
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Semester’s topics. Drop us a line!

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Contents

Go Functions
Go The Laplace Transform
Go Example: the Laplace Transform of f (t) = 1
Go Integration by Parts
Go A list of some Laplace Transforms
Go Linearity
Go Transforming a Derivative
Go First Derivative
Go Higher Derivatives
Go The Inverse Laplace Transform
Go Linearity
Go Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms
Go The s−shifting Theorem
Go The Heaviside Function
Go Introduction: Piecewise Functions
Go Turning functions on at t = 0
Go Turning functions on at t = a
Go Turning functions on at t = a and off at t = b
Go Laplace Transform of The Heaviside function

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Functions

Most of your mathematics to date has involved functions of the form

f : R −→ R

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Functions

Most of your mathematics to date has involved functions of the form

f : R −→ R

These are functions take in real numbers and output real numbers.

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Functions

Most of your mathematics to date has involved functions of the form

f : R −→ R

These are functions take in real numbers and output real numbers.

Laplace transforms which take in functions and output functions.

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The Laplace Transform

The Laplace transform (L) takes in

a function of the variable t, and returns a function of the variable s.

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The Laplace Transform

The Laplace transform (L) takes in

a function of the variable t, and returns a function of the variable s.

L : {functions of t} −→ {functions of s}

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The Laplace Transform

The Laplace transform (L) takes in

a function of the variable t, and returns a function of the variable s.

L : {functions of t} −→ {functions of s}

How does it do this?

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The Laplace Transform

Let f (t) be a function.

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The Laplace Transform

Let f (t) be a function.

To get the Laplace transform of f (t),

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The Laplace Transform

Let f (t) be a function.

To get the Laplace transform of f (t),

first we multiply f (t) by the function e −st to get

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The Laplace Transform

Let f (t) be a function.

To get the Laplace transform of f (t),

first we multiply f (t) by the function e −st to get

e −st f (t)

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The Laplace Transform

Let f (t) be a function.

To get the Laplace transform of f (t),

first we multiply f (t) by the function e −st to get

e −st f (t)

and then we integrate with respect to t from t = 0 up to t = ∞ to get

Z ∞
e −st f (t) dt
0

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The Laplace Transform

Let f (t) be a function.

To get the Laplace transform of f (t),

first we multiply f (t) by the function e −st to get

e −st f (t)

and then we integrate with respect to t from t = 0 up to t = ∞ to get

Z ∞
e −st f (t) dt
0

Note: By integrating over t (ie. treating s as a constant), all we are left with is a
function of s.

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The Laplace Transform

Let f (t) be a function.

To get the Laplace transform of f (t),

first we multiply f (t) by the function e −st to get

e −st f (t)

and then we integrate with respect to t from t = 0 up to t = ∞ to get

Z ∞
e −st f (t) dt
0

Note: By integrating over t (ie. treating s as a constant), all we are left with is a
function of s.

We denote this by L(f )(s), or sometimes F (s).

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st

e −st × 1

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st and integrate from t = 0 to t = ∞.

e −st × 1

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st and integrate from t = 0 to t = ∞.

Z ∞
e −st × 1 dt
0

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st and integrate from t = 0 to t = ∞.

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st and integrate from t = 0 to t = ∞.

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0
 ∞
e −st
=
−s 0

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st and integrate from t = 0 to t = ∞.

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0
 ∞
e −st
=
−s 0

Here, if s is negative, then −s would be positive, and so −st → ∞ as t → ∞. This

would cause e −st to be infinite and the integral to diverge.

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st and integrate from t = 0 to t = ∞.

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0
 ∞
e −st
=
−s 0

Here, if s is negative, then −s would be positive, and so −st → ∞ as t → ∞. This

would cause e −st to be infinite and the integral to diverge.

Also, if s = 0, then we would be dividing by 0.

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Let’s take the Laplace transform of a simple function f (t) = 1.

Multiply f (t) by e −st and integrate from t = 0 to t = ∞.

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0
 ∞
e −st
=
−s 0

Here, if s is negative, then −s would be positive, and so −st → ∞ as t → ∞. This

would cause e −st to be infinite and the integral to diverge.

Also, if s = 0, then we would be dividing by 0.

So, to finish off the integral and get a sensible answer, we will add the condition that
s > 0.

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Keeping s > 0 we get:

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0
 ∞
e −st
=
−s 0

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Keeping s > 0 we get:

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0
 ∞
e −st
=
−s 0

0 1
= −
−s −s

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Keeping s > 0 we get:

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0
 ∞
e −st
=
−s 0

0 1
= −
−s −s
1
=
s

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Example: The Laplace Transform of f (t ) = 1

Keeping s > 0 we get:

Z ∞
L(f )(s) = e −st × 1 dt
0
 ∞
e −st
=
−s 0

0 1
= −
−s −s
1
=
s

1 1
We write L(1)(s) = or F (s) = , for s > 0.
s s

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Integration By Parts

The Laplace transform involves integrating the product of two functions. Therefore, you
should know integration by parts!

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Integration By Parts

The Laplace transform involves integrating the product of two functions. Therefore, you
should know integration by parts!

Z Z
f (x )g 0 (x )dx = f (x )g(x ) − f 0 (x )g(x )dx

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Integration By Parts

The Laplace transform involves integrating the product of two functions. Therefore, you
should know integration by parts!

Z Z
f (x )g 0 (x )dx = f (x )g(x ) − f 0 (x )g(x )dx

Specifically, we can integrate from 0 to ∞:

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Integration By Parts

The Laplace transform involves integrating the product of two functions. Therefore, you
should know integration by parts!

Z Z
f (x )g 0 (x )dx = f (x )g(x ) − f 0 (x )g(x )dx

Specifically, we can integrate from 0 to ∞:

Z ∞  ∞ Z ∞
f (x )g 0 (x )dx = f (x )g(x ) − f 0 (x )g(x )dx
0 0 0

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Another Laplace Transform

Example 8.4 in the Mathematical Methods 2 (MM2) Reader gives the Laplace transform
of another function:

f (t) = e at

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Another Laplace Transform

Example 8.4 in the Mathematical Methods 2 (MM2) Reader gives the Laplace transform
of another function:

f (t) = e at

1
F (s) = L(f )(s) =
s −a

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Another Laplace Transform

Example 8.4 in the Mathematical Methods 2 (MM2) Reader gives the Laplace transform
of another function:

f (t) = e at

1
F (s) = L(f )(s) =
s −a

However, once again, we have a condition: s > a.

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A list of some Laplace Transforms
Some useful Laplace Transforms discussed in MM2:

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A list of some Laplace Transforms
Some useful Laplace Transforms discussed in MM2:

f (t) L(f )(s) Restriction

1
1 s s>0
1
e at s −a s>a

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A list of some Laplace Transforms
Some useful Laplace Transforms discussed in MM2:

f (t) L(f )(s) Restriction

1
1 s s>0
1
e at s −a s>a
n!
tn s n+1 s>0
a
sin(at) s 2 + a2 s>0
s
cos(at) s 2 + a2 s>0
a
sinh(at) s 2 − a2 s>0
s
cosh(at) s 2 − a2 s>0

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

This means that if a, b are constants and f , g are functions we have

L(af + bg)(s) = aL(f )(s) + bL(g)(s)

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

This means that if a, b are constants and f , g are functions we have

L(af + bg)(s) = aL(f )(s) + bL(g)(s)

Example: Find the Laplace transform of y (t) = 3 + 2e 5t .

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

This means that if a, b are constants and f , g are functions we have

L(af + bg)(s) = aL(f )(s) + bL(g)(s)

Example: Find the Laplace transform of y (t) = 3 + 2e 5t .

Y (s) = L(3 + 2e 5t ) =

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

This means that if a, b are constants and f , g are functions we have

L(af + bg)(s) = aL(f )(s) + bL(g)(s)

Example: Find the Laplace transform of y (t) = 3 + 2e 5t .

Y (s) = L(3 + 2e 5t ) = 3L(1) + 2L(e 5t ) =

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

This means that if a, b are constants and f , g are functions we have

L(af + bg)(s) = aL(f )(s) + bL(g)(s)

Example: Find the Laplace transform of y (t) = 3 + 2e 5t .

Y (s) = L(3 + 2e 5t ) = 3L(1) + 2L(e 5t ) = 3 ×

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

This means that if a, b are constants and f , g are functions we have

L(af + bg)(s) = aL(f )(s) + bL(g)(s)

Example: Find the Laplace transform of y (t) = 3 + 2e 5t .

1
Y (s) = L(3 + 2e 5t ) = 3L(1) + 2L(e 5t ) = 3 × +2×
s

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

This means that if a, b are constants and f , g are functions we have

L(af + bg)(s) = aL(f )(s) + bL(g)(s)

Example: Find the Laplace transform of y (t) = 3 + 2e 5t .

1 1
Y (s) = L(3 + 2e 5t ) = 3L(1) + 2L(e 5t ) = 3 × +2× =
s s −5

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Linearity

Laplace Transforms are linear.

This means that if a, b are constants and f , g are functions we have

L(af + bg)(s) = aL(f )(s) + bL(g)(s)

Example: Find the Laplace transform of y (t) = 3 + 2e 5t .

1 1 3 2
Y (s) = L(3 + 2e 5t ) = 3L(1) + 2L(e 5t ) = 3 × +2× = +
s s −5 s s −5

provided s > 5.

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Transforming a Derivative

Let’s say you have a function f (t), and you already know the Laplace transform L(f )(s)
of this function.

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Transforming a Derivative

Let’s say you have a function f (t), and you already know the Laplace transform L(f )(s)
of this function.

Then, it is very easy to find the Laplace Transform of f 0 (t).

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Transforming a Derivative

Let’s say you have a function f (t), and you already know the Laplace transform L(f )(s)
of this function.

Then, it is very easy to find the Laplace Transform of f 0 (t).

L(f 0 )(s) = sL(f )(s) − f (0)

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Transforming a Derivative

Let’s say you have a function f (t), and you already know the Laplace transform L(f )(s)
of this function.

Then, it is very easy to find the Laplace Transform of f 0 (t).

L(f 0 )(s) = sL(f )(s) − f (0)

Just multiply the Laplace Transform of f (t) by s, and take away the initial value of f .

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Transforming a Derivative

Let’s say you have a function f (t), and you already know the Laplace transform L(f )(s)
of this function.

Then, it is very easy to find the Laplace Transform of f 0 (t).

L(f 0 )(s) = sL(f )(s) − f (0)

Just multiply the Laplace Transform of f (t) by s, and take away the initial value of f .

Note: This linear relationship between the Laplace Transform of a function and the
Laplace Transform of its derivative is what makes the transform useful for solving ODEs.

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Higher Derivatives

Higher derivatives can also be transformed:

L(f 0 )(s) = sL(f )(s) − f (0)

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Higher Derivatives

Higher derivatives can also be transformed:

L(f 0 )(s) = sL(f )(s) − f (0)

L(f 00 )(s) = s 2 L(f )(s) − sf (0) − f 0 (0)

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Higher Derivatives

Higher derivatives can also be transformed:

L(f 0 )(s) = sL(f )(s) − f (0)

L(f 00 )(s) = s 2 L(f )(s) − sf (0) − f 0 (0)

L(f 000 )(s) = s 3 L(f )(s) − s 2 f (0) − sf 0 (0) − f 00 (0)

Note the decreasing powers of s of each term.

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Higher Derivatives

Higher derivatives can also be transformed:

L(f 0 )(s) = sL(f )(s) − f (0)

L(f 00 )(s) = s 2 L(f )(s) − sf (0) − f 0 (0)

L(f 000 )(s) = s 3 L(f )(s) − s 2 f (0) − sf 0 (0) − f 00 (0)

Note the decreasing powers of s of each term.

Note: Laplace Transforms of higher derivative are all linearly related to the Laplace
Transform of the function.

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The Inverse Laplace Transform

The Laplace transform maps functions of t to functions of s.

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The Inverse Laplace Transform

The Laplace transform maps functions of t to functions of s.

The inverse Laplace transform reverses this process, mapping the functions of s, back
to their original functions of t.

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The Inverse Laplace Transform

The Laplace transform maps functions of t to functions of s.

The inverse Laplace transform reverses this process, mapping the functions of s, back
to their original functions of t.

So this means that

L[f (t)] = F (s)

if and only if

L−1 [F (s)] = f (t)

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The Inverse Laplace Transform

The Laplace transform maps functions of t to functions of s.

The inverse Laplace transform reverses this process, mapping the functions of s, back
to their original functions of t.

So this means that

L[f (t)] = F (s)

if and only if

L−1 [F (s)] = f (t)

1
 
Example: L−1 =1
s

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Linearity

L−1 is linear!

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Linearity

L−1 is linear!

L−1 (aF + bG)(s) = aL−1 (F )(s) + bL−1 (G)(s)

Laplace Transforms
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Linearity

L−1 is linear!

L−1 (aF + bG)(s) = aL−1 (F )(s) + bL−1 (G)(s)

Example:
3 4
 
L−1 + 2 =
s s

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Linearity

L−1 is linear!

L−1 (aF + bG)(s) = aL−1 (F )(s) + bL−1 (G)(s)

Example:
3 4 1 1
     
L−1 + 2 = 3L−1 + 4L−1 =
s s s s2

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Linearity

L−1 is linear!

L−1 (aF + bG)(s) = aL−1 (F )(s) + bL−1 (G)(s)

Example:
3 4 1 1
     
L−1 + 2 = 3L−1 + 4L−1 =3×
s s s s2

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Linearity

L−1 is linear!

L−1 (aF + bG)(s) = aL−1 (F )(s) + bL−1 (G)(s)

Example:
3 4 1 1
     
L−1 + 2 = 3L−1 + 4L−1 =3×1+4
s s s s2

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Linearity

L−1 is linear!

L−1 (aF + bG)(s) = aL−1 (F )(s) + bL−1 (G)(s)

Example:
3 4 1 1
     
L−1 + 2 = 3L−1 + 4L−1 = 3 × 1 + 4t =
s s s s2

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Linearity

L−1 is linear!

L−1 (aF + bG)(s) = aL−1 (F )(s) + bL−1 (G)(s)

Example:
3 4 1 1
     
L−1 + 2 = 3L−1 + 4L−1 = 3 × 1 + 4t = 3 + 4t
s s s s2

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

We can now see how Laplace Transforms help us solve Ordinary Differential Equations.

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

We can now see how Laplace Transforms help us solve Ordinary Differential Equations.

Example: Solve

y 00 (t) + 4y 0 (t) = 1

subject to y (0) = y 0 (0) = 0.

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

We can now see how Laplace Transforms help us solve Ordinary Differential Equations.

Example: Solve

y 00 (t) + 4y 0 (t) = 1

subject to y (0) = y 0 (0) = 0.

We take the Laplace Transform of both sides to get:

L(y 00 (t) + 4y 0 (t)) = L(1)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

We can now see how Laplace Transforms help us solve Ordinary Differential Equations.

Example: Solve

y 00 (t) + 4y 0 (t) = 1

subject to y (0) = y 0 (0) = 0.

We take the Laplace Transform of both sides to get:

L(y 00 (t) + 4y 0 (t)) = L(1)

We can use linearity and knowledge of basic Laplace transforms to get

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) =
s

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) −

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

L(y 00 (t)) or L(y 00 )(s) = s 2 L(y )(s) − sy (0) − y 0 (0)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

L(y 00 (t)) or L(y 00 )(s) = s 2 L(y )(s) − sy (0) − y 0 (0)

= s 2 Y (s) − s

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

L(y 00 (t)) or L(y 00 )(s) = s 2 L(y )(s) − sy (0) − y 0 (0)

= s 2 Y (s) − s0 −

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

L(y 00 (t)) or L(y 00 )(s) = s 2 L(y )(s) − sy (0) − y 0 (0)

= s 2 Y (s) − s0 − 0

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

L(y 00 (t)) or L(y 00 )(s) = s 2 L(y )(s) − sy (0) − y 0 (0)

= s 2 Y (s) − s0 − 0
= s 2 Y (s)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

L(y 00 (t)) or L(y 00 )(s) = s 2 L(y )(s) − sy (0) − y 0 (0)

= s 2 Y (s) − s0 − 0
= s 2 Y (s)

Substituting these in we get

1
s 2 Y (s) + 4sY (s) =
s

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

L(y 00 (t)) or L(y 00 )(s) = s 2 L(y )(s) − sy (0) − y 0 (0)

= s 2 Y (s) − s0 − 0
= s 2 Y (s)

Substituting these in we get

1
s 2 Y (s) + 4sY (s) =
s
Now we have removed the derivatives from the ODE!

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
L(y 00 (t)) + 4L(y 0 (t)) = (and y (0) = 0, y 0 (0) = 0)
s
Recall our rules for the Laplace transform of derivatives:

L(y 0 (t)) or L(y 0 )(s) = sL(y )(s) − y (0)

= sY (s) − 0
= sY (s)

L(y 00 (t)) or L(y 00 )(s) = s 2 L(y )(s) − sy (0) − y 0 (0)

= s 2 Y (s) − s0 − 0
= s 2 Y (s)

Substituting these in we get

1
s 2 Y (s) + 4sY (s) =
s
Now we have removed the derivatives from the ODE!

Factoring gives us:

1
Y (s)(s 2 + 4s) =
s
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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
Y (s)(s 2 + 4s) =
s

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
Y (s)(s 2 + 4s) =
s

which we rearrange to get

1
Y (s) =
s(s 2 + 4s)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
Y (s)(s 2 + 4s) =
s

which we rearrange to get

1
Y (s) =
s(s 2 + 4s)

Now that Y (s) is now isolated.

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
Y (s)(s 2 + 4s) =
s

which we rearrange to get

1
Y (s) =
s(s 2 + 4s)

Now that Y (s) is now isolated. We can take the inverse Laplace transform of both sides
to get a solution for y (t):
 
−1 −1 1
L (Y (s)) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
Y (s)(s 2 + 4s) =
s

which we rearrange to get

1
Y (s) =
s(s 2 + 4s)

Now that Y (s) is now isolated. We can take the inverse Laplace transform of both sides
to get a solution for y (t):
 
−1 −1 1
L (Y (s)) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)
 
−1 1
⇒ y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

1
Y (s)(s 2 + 4s) =
s

which we rearrange to get

1
Y (s) =
s(s 2 + 4s)

Now that Y (s) is now isolated. We can take the inverse Laplace transform of both sides
to get a solution for y (t):
 
−1 −1 1
L (Y (s)) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)
 
−1 1
⇒ y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

So, if we know how to take the inverse Laplace transform of such things, we can solve
these ODEs!
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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

We want to find
 
−1 1
L
s 2 (s + 4)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

We want to find
 
−1 1
L
s 2 (s + 4)

We do so by using partial fractions to find numbers A, B, and C so that:

1 A B C
= + 2 +
s 2 (s + 4) s s s +4

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

We want to find
 
−1 1
L
s 2 (s + 4)

We do so by using partial fractions to find numbers A, B, and C so that:

1 A B C
= + 2 +
s 2 (s + 4) s s s +4

If you carry out this process (see the Unit Reader or the (mα+ths)Smart Partial
1
Fractions workshop) you should get A = − 16 , B = 14 , C = 16
1
, which means:

1 −1/16 1/4 1/16

= + 2 +
s 2 (s + 4) s s s +4

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

 
−1 1
y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

 
−1 1
y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

We now have
 
−1/16 1/4 1/16
y (t) = L−1 + 2 +
s s s +4

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

 
−1 1
y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

We now have
 
−1/16 1/4 1/16
y (t) = L−1 + 2 +
s s s +4

Linearity gives us:

1 −1 1 1 −1 1 1 −1 1
     
y (t) = − L + L + L
16 s 4 s2 16 s +4

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

 
−1 1
y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

We now have
 
−1/16 1/4 1/16
y (t) = L−1 + 2 +
s s s +4

Linearity gives us:

1 −1 1 1 −1 1 1 −1 1
     
y (t) = − L + L + L
16 s 4 s2 16 s +4

A table of Laplace Transforms then gives us that:

1
y (t) = − ×
16

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

 
−1 1
y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

We now have
 
−1/16 1/4 1/16
y (t) = L−1 + 2 +
s s s +4

Linearity gives us:

1 −1 1 1 −1 1 1 −1 1
     
y (t) = − L + L + L
16 s 4 s2 16 s +4

A table of Laplace Transforms then gives us that:

1
y (t) = − ×1+
16

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

 
−1 1
y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

We now have
 
−1/16 1/4 1/16
y (t) = L−1 + 2 +
s s s +4

Linearity gives us:

1 −1 1 1 −1 1 1 −1 1
     
y (t) = − L + L + L
16 s 4 s2 16 s +4

A table of Laplace Transforms then gives us that:

1 1
y (t) = − ×1+ t +
16 4

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

 
−1 1
y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

We now have
 
−1/16 1/4 1/16
y (t) = L−1 + 2 +
s s s +4

Linearity gives us:

1 −1 1 1 −1 1 1 −1 1
     
y (t) = − L + L + L
16 s 4 s2 16 s +4

A table of Laplace Transforms then gives us that:

1 1 1 −4t
y (t) = − ×1+ t + e
16 4 16

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

 
−1 1
y (t) = L
s(s 2 + 4s)

We now have
 
−1/16 1/4 1/16
y (t) = L−1 + 2 +
s s s +4

Linearity gives us:

1 −1 1 1 −1 1 1 −1 1
     
y (t) = − L + L + L
16 s 4 s2 16 s +4

A table of Laplace Transforms then gives us that:

1 1 1 −4t 1 t 1 −4t
y (t) = − ×1+ t + e =− + + e
16 4 16 16 4 16

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Solving Linear ODE’s with Laplace Transforms

So, the solution to the ODE

y 00 (t) + 4y 0 (t) = 1

subject to initial conditions y (0) = y 0 (0) = 0 is

1 t 1 −4t
y (t) = − + + e
16 4 16

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The s -Shifting Theorem

Let’s say we know the Laplace transform of a function f (t), so we know that

F (s) = L(f )(s) for s > b.

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The s -Shifting Theorem

Let’s say we know the Laplace transform of a function f (t), so we know that

F (s) = L(f )(s) for s > b.

Then the s-Shifting Theorem gives us the Laplace transform of e at f (t).

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The s -Shifting Theorem

Let’s say we know the Laplace transform of a function f (t), so we know that

F (s) = L(f )(s) for s > b.

Then the s-Shifting Theorem gives us the Laplace transform of e at f (t).

L(e at f (t)) = F (s − a)

for s > a + b.

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The s -Shifting Theorem

L(e at f (t)) = F (s − a)

for s > a + b.

Example: Find L e 2t t

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The s -Shifting Theorem

L(e at f (t)) = F (s − a)

for s > a + b.

Example: Find L e 2t t

1
In this case, f (t) = t so we know that F (s) = for s > 0.
s2

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The s -Shifting Theorem

L(e at f (t)) = F (s − a)

for s > a + b.

Example: Find L e 2t t

1
In this case, f (t) = t so we know that F (s) = for s > 0.
s2

Using the above theorem (a = 2, b = 0), we have

1
L(e 2t t) =
(s − 2)2

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The s -Shifting Theorem

L(e at f (t)) = F (s − a)

for s > a + b.

Example: Find L e 2t t

1
In this case, f (t) = t so we know that F (s) = for s > 0.
s2

Using the above theorem (a = 2, b = 0), we have

1
L(e 2t t) =
(s − 2)2

for s > 2 + 0.

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The Heaviside Function: Introduction: Piecewise Functions

Piecewise functions are common in many applications of mathematics, reflecting

different behaviour of systems in different parts of a domain.

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The Heaviside Function: Introduction: Piecewise Functions

Piecewise functions are common in many applications of mathematics, reflecting

different behaviour of systems in different parts of a domain.
(
0 , t<1
Example: f (t) = 2 , 1≤t<3
t , t≥3
f (t)

−1 1 2 3 4 t
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The Heaviside Function: Introduction: Piecewise Functions

Finding Laplace Transforms of piecewise functions is difficult unless they can be rewritten
as functions with a single form.

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The Heaviside Function: Introduction: Piecewise Functions

Finding Laplace Transforms of piecewise functions is difficult unless they can be rewritten
as functions with a single form.

To do this we need to “switch” branches of the piecewise function “on and off” for
different parts of the domain.

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The Heaviside Function: Introduction: Piecewise Functions

Finding Laplace Transforms of piecewise functions is difficult unless they can be rewritten
as functions with a single form.

To do this we need to “switch” branches of the piecewise function “on and off” for
different parts of the domain.

The Heaviside function can do this:

H(t)

0 , t<0
H(t) =
1 , t≥0
1

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Turning functions on at t = 0

Multiply a function g(t) by H(t) and it will “turn g(t) on” at t = 0:

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Turning functions on at t = 0

Multiply a function g(t) by H(t) and it will “turn g(t) on” at t = 0:

If g(t) = t 2 + 1, then g(t)H(t) looks like this:

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Turning functions on at t = 0

Multiply a function g(t) by H(t) and it will “turn g(t) on” at t = 0:

If g(t) = t 2 + 1, then g(t)H(t) looks like this:

g(t)H(t)

2 −1 1 2 t

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Turning functions on at t = a

To “turn functions on” at points other than zero, say a, we replace t by t − a:

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Turning functions on at t = a

To “turn functions on” at points other than zero, say a, we replace t by t − a:

H(t − a)

0 , t<a
H(t − a) =
1 , t≥a
1

a t

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Turning functions on at t = a

Multiply a function g(t) by H(t − a) and it will “turn g(t) on” at t = a:

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Turning functions on at t = a

Multiply a function g(t) by H(t − a) and it will “turn g(t) on” at t = a:

If g(t) = t 2 + 1, then g(t)H(t − 1) looks like this:

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Turning functions on at t = a

Multiply a function g(t) by H(t − a) and it will “turn g(t) on” at t = a:

If g(t) = t 2 + 1, then g(t)H(t − 1) looks like this:

g(t)H(t − 1)

2 −1 1 2 t

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Turning functions on at t = a and off at t = b

We can also “turn functions on at a and off again at b” by combining H(t − a) and
H(t − b).

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Turning functions on at t = a and off at t = b

We can also “turn functions on at a and off again at b” by combining H(t − a) and
H(t − b).

H(t − a)

0 , t<a
H(t − a) =
1 , t≥a
1

a b t

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Turning functions on at t = a and off at t = b

We can also “turn functions on at a and off again at b” by combining H(t − a) and
H(t − b).

H(t − a), H(t − b)


0 , t<a
H(t − a) =
1 , t≥a
1

0 , t<b
H(t − b) =
1 , t≥b
a b t

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Turning functions on at t = a and off at t = b

We can also “turn functions on at a and off again at b” by combining H(t − a) and
H(t − b).

H(t − a), H(t − b)


0 , t<a
H(t − a) =
1 , t≥a
1

0 , t<b
H(t − b) =
1 , t≥b
a b t

For t < a, H(t − a) − H(t − b) = 0 − 0 = 0.

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Turning functions on at t = a and off at t = b

We can also “turn functions on at a and off again at b” by combining H(t − a) and
H(t − b).

H(t − a), H(t − b)


0 , t<a
H(t − a) =
1 , t≥a
1

0 , t<b
H(t − b) =
1 , t≥b
a b t

For t < a, H(t − a) − H(t − b) = 0 − 0 = 0.

For a ≤ t < b, H(t − a) − H(t − b) = 1 − 0 = 1.

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Turning functions on at t = a and off at t = b

We can also “turn functions on at a and off again at b” by combining H(t − a) and
H(t − b).

H(t − a), H(t − b)


0 , t<a
H(t − a) =
1 , t≥a
1

0 , t<b
H(t − b) =
1 , t≥b
a b t

For t < a, H(t − a) − H(t − b) = 0 − 0 = 0.

For a ≤ t < b, H(t − a) − H(t − b) = 1 − 0 = 1.
For t ≥ b, H(t − a) − H(t − b) = 1 − 1 = 0.

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Turning functions on at t = a and off at t = b

(
0 , t<a
H(t − a) − H(t − b) = 1 , a≤t<b
0 , t≥b

H(t − a) − H(t − b)

a b t

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The Heaviside function

Back to our example:

(
0 , t<1
f (t) = 2 , 1≤t<3
t , t≥3

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The Heaviside function

Back to our example:

(
0 , t<1
f (t) = 2 , 1≤t<3
t , t≥3

This piecewise function can now be replaced by a single expression as follows:

f (t) =

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The Heaviside function

Back to our example:

(
0 , t<1
f (t) = 2 , 1≤t<3
t , t≥3

This piecewise function can now be replaced by a single expression as follows:

f (t) = 2[H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)] +

turn 2nd branch on
between t = 1 and 3

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The Heaviside function

Back to our example:

(
0 , t<1
f (t) = 2 , 1≤t<3
t , t≥3

This piecewise function can now be replaced by a single expression as follows:

f (t) = 2[H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)] + tH(t − 3)

turn 2nd branch on turn 3rd branch on
between t = 1 and 3 at t = 3

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The Heaviside function

Back to our example:

(
0 , t<1
f (t) = 2 , 1≤t<3
t , t≥3

This piecewise function can now be replaced by a single expression as follows:

f (t) = 2[H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)] + tH(t − 3)

turn 2nd branch on turn 3rd branch on
between t = 1 and 3 at t = 3

Note: In this case, there is no need to “turn on” on the first branch because this is
already zero.

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

f (t) = 2(H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)) + tH(t − 3)

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

f (t) = 2(H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)) + tH(t − 3)

= 2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

f (t) = 2(H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)) + tH(t − 3)

= 2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)

The Laplace Transform of f (t) is then

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

f (t) = 2(H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)) + tH(t − 3)

= 2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)

The Laplace Transform of f (t) is then

L[f (t)] = L[2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)]

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

f (t) = 2(H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)) + tH(t − 3)

= 2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)

The Laplace Transform of f (t) is then

L[f (t)] = L[2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)]

F (s) = 2L[H(t − 1)] − 2L[H(t − 3)] + L[tH(t − 3)]

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

f (t) = 2(H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)) + tH(t − 3)

= 2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)

The Laplace Transform of f (t) is then

L[f (t)] = L[2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)]

F (s) = 2L[H(t − 1)] − 2L[H(t − 3)] + L[tH(t − 3)]

Now we need to know something about the Laplace Transforms of Heaviside functions.

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

f (t) = 2(H(t − 1) − H(t − 3)) + tH(t − 3)

= 2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)

The Laplace Transform of f (t) is then

L[f (t)] = L[2H(t − 1) − 2H(t − 3) + tH(t − 3)]

F (s) = 2L[H(t − 1)] − 2L[H(t − 3)] + L[tH(t − 3)]

Now we need to know something about the Laplace Transforms of Heaviside functions.

L[H(t − 1)] = ? L[H(t − 3)] = ? L[tH(t − 3)] = ?

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

We need the Laplace transform of just a Heaviside function, L[H(t − a)] so it makes
sense to choose f (t) = 1. Why?

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

We need the Laplace transform of just a Heaviside function, L[H(t − a)] so it makes
sense to choose f (t) = 1. Why? Answer: because f (t − a) = 1 as well.

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

We need the Laplace transform of just a Heaviside function, L[H(t − a)] so it makes
sense to choose f (t) = 1. Why? Answer: because f (t − a) = 1 as well.

1
We know that F (s) = , so:
s

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

We need the Laplace transform of just a Heaviside function, L[H(t − a)] so it makes
sense to choose f (t) = 1. Why? Answer: because f (t − a) = 1 as well.

1
We know that F (s) = , so:
s
L[H(t − a)] =

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

We need the Laplace transform of just a Heaviside function, L[H(t − a)] so it makes
sense to choose f (t) = 1. Why? Answer: because f (t − a) = 1 as well.

1
We know that F (s) = , so:
s
L[H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

We need the Laplace transform of just a Heaviside function, L[H(t − a)] so it makes
sense to choose f (t) = 1. Why? Answer: because f (t − a) = 1 as well.

1
We know that F (s) = , so:
s
L[H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)
1
= e −as ×
s

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

We need the Laplace transform of just a Heaviside function, L[H(t − a)] so it makes
sense to choose f (t) = 1. Why? Answer: because f (t − a) = 1 as well.

1
We know that F (s) = , so:
s
L[H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)
1
= e −as ×
s
e −as
=
s

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Theorem 8.28 in the MATH1002 Unit Reader says:

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

We need the Laplace transform of just a Heaviside function, L[H(t − a)] so it makes
sense to choose f (t) = 1. Why? Answer: because f (t − a) = 1 as well.

1
We know that F (s) = , so:
s
L[H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)
1
= e −as ×
s
e −as
=
s

e −s e −3s
Now we know that L[H(t − 1)] = and L[H(t − 3)] =
s s
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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

To find L[tH(t − 3)],

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

1
 
To find L[tH(t − 3)], make f (t) = t so F (s) = .
s2

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

1
 
To find L[tH(t − 3)], make f (t) = t so F (s) = .
s2

The theorem uses f (t − 3) = t − 3 so we need to make an adjustment before we can

apply it to L[tH(t − 3)]:

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

1
 
To find L[tH(t − 3)], make f (t) = t so F (s) = .
s2

The theorem uses f (t − 3) = t − 3 so we need to make an adjustment before we can

apply it to L[tH(t − 3)]:

L[tH(t − 3)] =

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

1
 
To find L[tH(t − 3)], make f (t) = t so F (s) = .
s2

The theorem uses f (t − 3) = t − 3 so we need to make an adjustment before we can

apply it to L[tH(t − 3)]:

L[tH(t − 3)] = L[(t − 3)H(t − 3) + 3H(t − 3)]

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

1
 
To find L[tH(t − 3)], make f (t) = t so F (s) = .
s2

The theorem uses f (t − 3) = t − 3 so we need to make an adjustment before we can

apply it to L[tH(t − 3)]:

L[tH(t − 3)] = L[(t − 3)H(t − 3) + 3H(t − 3)]

= L[(t − 3)H(t − 3)] + 3L[H(t − 3)]

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

1
 
To find L[tH(t − 3)], make f (t) = t so F (s) = .
s2

The theorem uses f (t − 3) = t − 3 so we need to make an adjustment before we can

apply it to L[tH(t − 3)]:

L[tH(t − 3)] = L[(t − 3)H(t − 3) + 3H(t − 3)]

= L[(t − 3)H(t − 3)] + 3L[H(t − 3)]

1
= e −3s ×
s2

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

1
 
To find L[tH(t − 3)], make f (t) = t so F (s) = .
s2

The theorem uses f (t − 3) = t − 3 so we need to make an adjustment before we can

apply it to L[tH(t − 3)]:

L[tH(t − 3)] = L[(t − 3)H(t − 3) + 3H(t − 3)]

= L[(t − 3)H(t − 3)] + 3L[H(t − 3)]

1 e −3s
= e −3s × + 3
s2 s

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

1
 
To find L[tH(t − 3)], make f (t) = t so F (s) = .
s2

The theorem uses f (t − 3) = t − 3 so we need to make an adjustment before we can

apply it to L[tH(t − 3)]:

L[tH(t − 3)] = L[(t − 3)H(t − 3) + 3H(t − 3)]

= L[(t − 3)H(t − 3)] + 3L[H(t − 3)]

1 e −3s
= e −3s × + 3
s2 s

e −3s 3e −3s
= +
s2 s
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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

Note: The method we just used is essentially what is covered in the MM2 notes.

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

Note: The method we just used is essentially what is covered in the MM2 notes. You
might find it intuitively easier to simply declare f (t − 3) = t.

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

Note: The method we just used is essentially what is covered in the MM2 notes. You
might find it intuitively easier to simply declare f (t − 3) = t.

The trouble now is that this makes f (t) = t + 3 and we don’t have the Laplace
transform of t + 3. However,

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

Note: The method we just used is essentially what is covered in the MM2 notes. You
might find it intuitively easier to simply declare f (t − 3) = t.

The trouble now is that this makes f (t) = t + 3 and we don’t have the Laplace
transform of t + 3. However,

F (s) = L[f (t)] =

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

Note: The method we just used is essentially what is covered in the MM2 notes. You
might find it intuitively easier to simply declare f (t − 3) = t.

The trouble now is that this makes f (t) = t + 3 and we don’t have the Laplace
transform of t + 3. However,

F (s) = L[f (t)] = L[t + 3]

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

Note: The method we just used is essentially what is covered in the MM2 notes. You
might find it intuitively easier to simply declare f (t − 3) = t.

The trouble now is that this makes f (t) = t + 3 and we don’t have the Laplace
transform of t + 3. However,

F (s) = L[f (t)] = L[t + 3]

= L[t] + 3L[1]

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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

Note: The method we just used is essentially what is covered in the MM2 notes. You
might find it intuitively easier to simply declare f (t − 3) = t.

The trouble now is that this makes f (t) = t + 3 and we don’t have the Laplace
transform of t + 3. However,

F (s) = L[f (t)] = L[t + 3]

= L[t] + 3L[1]
1 1
= +3
s2 s

Laplace Transforms
((mα+hs)Smart and Semester
Workshop the Heaviside
2, 2016
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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

L[f (t − a)H(t − a)] = e −as F (s)

Note: The method we just used is essentially what is covered in the MM2 notes. You
might find it intuitively easier to simply declare f (t − 3) = t.

The trouble now is that this makes f (t) = t + 3 and we don’t have the Laplace
transform of t + 3. However,

F (s) = L[f (t)] = L[t + 3]

= L[t] + 3L[1]
1 1
= +3
s2 s
Using this in the theorem leads to the same answer (with the same amount of work as
for the previous method).

Laplace Transforms
((mα+hs)Smart and Semester
Workshop the Heaviside
2, 2016
Function
) Contents Prev Next 37 / 39
Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Finally, the answer is:

F (s) = 2L[H(t − 1)] − 2L[H(t − 3)] + L[tH(t − 3)]

Laplace Transforms
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Workshop the Heaviside
2, 2016
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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Finally, the answer is:

F (s) = 2L[H(t − 1)] − 2L[H(t − 3)] + L[tH(t − 3)]

2e −s 2e −3s e −3s 3e −3s

= − + +
s s s2 s

Laplace Transforms
((mα+hs)Smart and Semester
Workshop the Heaviside
2, 2016
Function
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Laplace transform of the Heaviside function

Finally, the answer is:

F (s) = 2L[H(t − 1)] − 2L[H(t − 3)] + L[tH(t − 3)]

2e −s 2e −3s e −3s 3e −3s

= − + +
s s s2 s

2se −s + se −3s + 2e −s
=
s2

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 Using STUDYSmarter Resources

This resource was developed for UWA students by the STUDYSmarter team for the
numeracy program. When using our resources, please retain them in their original form
with both the STUDYSmarter heading and the UWA crest.

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