# Laplace transform of $1/t$

Does the laplace transform of $1/t$ exist? If yes, how do we calculate it? Putting it in $$\int_0^\infty (e^{-st}/t) dt$$ won't solve.

Is there any other way? If not, why?

Thanks!

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Does this exist? No, for the reason you quote. –  Did May 19 '12 at 19:12
If that is the definition of "Laplace transform", then (as you note) it diverges. What do you want it for? Maybe something else will do... –  GEdgar May 19 '12 at 19:19

No, it doesn't exist. In general the Laplace transform of $t^n$ is $\frac{\Gamma(n+1)}{s^{n+1}}$, and $\Gamma(n)$ isn't defined on $0,-1,-2,-3...$ This integral is the definition of the Laplace transform, so the transform doesn't exist if the integral doesn't. While there are other integral transforms that could transform $\frac{1}{t}$ in a useful way, anything other than what you gave wouldn't be considered a Laplace transform anymore.
Or more simply: $t^n \stackrel{\mathcal{L}}{\Longleftrightarrow} \frac{n!}{s^{n+1}}$ without involving the gamma ($\:\Gamma\:$) function. –  night owl Jun 30 '12 at 8:10