Optimal Energy Recovery in Finite Time for Linearly Dissipative Systems

Authors

Mark Meilstrup, Brigham Young University
Dr. Scott Glasgow, Brigham Young University

Keywords

energy recovery, finite time, linearly dissipative systems, LRC circuits

College

Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Department

Mathematics

Abstract

Many physical processes involve the loss or dissipation of energy. For example, when pushing a box across the floor, some of the energy that is spent will be lost to frictional forces. Our research is concerned with the study of the energy which is lost, and also the energy which is recoverable, in the more complex setting of a linearly dissipative optical system. We consider some electromagnetic pulse, such as a laser beam, entering and interacting with an absorbing medium, such as glass or some gas. When the pulse exits the medium, some of the energy has been absorbed, and this amount varies dependant upon the evolution of the pulse. While our research centers on such electromagnetic systems, the results of our research also apply directly to other linear systems, such as lumped LRC (inductor, resistor, capacitor) circuits and also springmass systems.

Recommended Citation

Meilstrup, Mark and Glasgow, Dr. Scott (2014) "Optimal Energy Recovery in Finite Time for Linearly Dissipative Systems," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 1216.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/1216