The Heaviside step function, often denoted as H(t) , is a mathematical function that is used to represent a signal that turns on at a specific point in time. It is defined as zero for all negative values of t and one for all positive values. At t = 0 , the function is typically defined to be either 0 or 1, depending on the convention used. This function is widely used in various fields, including engineering and physics, particularly in the analysis of systems and signals. It helps in modeling situations where a sudden change occurs, such as the activation of a circuit or the onset of a force. The Heaviside step function is a fundamental concept in the study of control systems and signal processing.