Fourier Series: Small Waves & Equal Amplitude

In summary, the Fourier series is a function that approximates a wave, but the amplitude of the small waves does not equal that of the big waves.
  • #1
Emilijo
36
0
In Fourier series we have small waves on the top of big waves (the function seems like that),
but the small waves do not have the same amplitude. Does somebody know how to get a function with waves and small waves on the top but with the same amplitude.
 
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  • #2
What is the definition of a small wave if it doesn't have anything to do with amplitude?
 
  • #3
fourier-2.jpg


Can you see now, small waves on the top of big wave are not the same (equal amplitude)
{click on the picture to see it better}
 

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  • #4
If you're talking about the changing amplitude of the Fourier Series approximation then the answer is that you really can't. Due to the Gibbs Phenomenon, you'll have an overshoot at any discontinuity, of which the amplitude doesn't diminish.
 
  • #5
Do you know how to get a function (any kind of function) with "small" waves on the top of "big" waves, but for the same amplitude of all small waves?
 
  • #8
The Fourier series is of the form
[tex]\sum A_n cos(nx)+ B_n sin(nx)[/tex]

It looks to me like your series happens to have only two non-zero terms, one with a period of about 6 and amplitude 3000, the other with period about .6 and amplitude about 100. In other words, something like
[tex]3000 cos(2\pi x/60)+ 100 cos(10(2\pi/60))[/tex]
 
  • #9
HallsofIvy said:
The Fourier series is of the form
[tex]\sum A_n cos(nx)+ B_n sin(nx)[/tex]

It looks to me like your series happens to have only two non-zero terms, one with a period of about 6 and amplitude 3000, the other with period about .6 and amplitude about 100. In other words, something like
[tex]3000 cos(2\pi x/60)+ 100 cos(10(2\pi/60))[/tex]

-Your function is not like on the atachment,
do you have better idea?
 
  • #11
I found a function: sin(1-cos(x))
But there are only 2 "small" waves on every wave (put the function in wolfram)
How to get 3, 4, 5, ... or n "small" waves?
 

1. What is a Fourier series?

A Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function by combining sine and cosine functions with different amplitudes and frequencies. It is used to break down a complex function into simpler, sinusoidal components.

2. Why are Fourier series important?

Fourier series are important because they allow us to represent complex functions in a simpler form, making it easier to analyze and manipulate them. They are also widely used in many fields such as signal processing, engineering, and physics.

3. How are Fourier series calculated?

Fourier series are calculated using a formula that involves integration. The coefficients of the sine and cosine functions are found by integrating the original function over one period. These coefficients are then used to construct the Fourier series.

4. What is the difference between a Fourier series and a Fourier transform?

The main difference between a Fourier series and a Fourier transform is that a Fourier series is applied to periodic functions, while a Fourier transform is used for non-periodic functions. Additionally, a Fourier series produces a discrete spectrum of frequencies, while a Fourier transform produces a continuous spectrum.

5. Can a Fourier series accurately represent any function?

No, a Fourier series can only accurately represent functions that are periodic. If a function is not periodic, its Fourier series will have an infinite number of terms and will not converge to the original function. In this case, a Fourier transform would be more appropriate to use.

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