The calculation of transients in dynamical systems

The paper shows that the calculation of transients by Tricomi's method using Laguerre functions is a practical alternative to the use of partial fractions. By taking numerical examples of Laplace transforms ranging from quadratic to sixth-power polynomials it shows that the approximation offered by this method would be acceptable for many practical uses. It analyses the composition of the coefficients of the Laguerre series, thus disclosing the conditions for quick convergence; for some transforms these conditions are not attainable.