Sketch the form of the Fourier transform - is this right?

In summary, the Fourier transform for the function f(k) = sin^2(ka/2) / (ka/2)^2 will have a graph that resembles a cos or sin graph with a central highest maximum. The peaks of the graph will decrease in height as k moves away from the origin, and the function will have two highest maximums at -π/2 and π/2. However, the concept of the sinc function suggests that there is only one maximum at k=0 and the function is symmetric across this point.
  • #1
Zomboy
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"Sketch the form of the Fourier transform" - is this right?

Question ~ sketch the "form of the Fourier transform" for the function:

f(k) = sin^2(ka/2) / (ka/2)^2So I'm thinking it will look like a cos [or sin] graph (shifted so that its 'above' *f(k)=0*) and that there will be some sort of *central* highest maximum and then the hight of the peaks tends to 0.

*** My question is does this graph have one highest maximum when k=0 or does it have two highest maximums either side of the origin spaced evenly from the origin [k=0]?

At the moment I'm thinking there will be two highest maximums which occur at -π/2 and π/2. Also, that when k = 0, f(k)=0.

Later on however in the question it implies that there is one central maximum:

"...find the values of k when f(k) first becomes zero either side of the central maximum at k=0..."Any advice?
 
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  • #2


There is a concept called the sinc function.

[itex]sin(k/2)/(k/2) = sinc(k/2)[/itex]

The function has one maximum at k=0, and is symmetric across k = 0. You function is the square version of this function, when the variable is taken to be ka/2.
 

1. What is the Fourier transform?

The Fourier transform is a mathematical operation that decomposes a function into its constituent frequencies. It is used to analyze signals and systems in various fields, such as engineering, physics, and mathematics.

2. How do you sketch the form of the Fourier transform?

The form of the Fourier transform can be sketched by plotting the magnitude and phase of the transform as a function of frequency. The magnitude is typically represented using a logarithmic scale, while the phase is shown as a function of frequency.

3. What does the Fourier transform tell us about a function?

The Fourier transform provides information about the frequencies present in a function and their corresponding magnitudes and phases. It can also reveal the periodicity and symmetry of a function.

4. Is there a specific formula for the Fourier transform?

Yes, the Fourier transform has a specific formula that involves integrating the function over all frequencies. However, the exact form of the formula may vary depending on the specific application and the function being transformed.

5. How is the Fourier transform used in real-world applications?

The Fourier transform has a wide range of applications, including signal and image processing, data compression, and solving differential equations. It is also used in fields such as optics, acoustics, and quantum mechanics to analyze and manipulate signals and systems.

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