Finding Fourier Series for u(x): Challenges with Integration

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the Fourier series for the function u(x) = sin((1 + 3cos(t))t). The user identifies that the function is odd, resulting in zero Fourier coefficients a_n, while the b_n coefficients are defined by the integral b_n = (4/T)∫_0^(T/2)u(t)sin(nωt) dt, with T = 2π and ω = 1. The primary challenge lies in the difficulty of integrating u(x)sin(nt), which the user suggests may be addressed by expressing u(x) as the real or imaginary part of a complex function. However, they note that neither Maple nor Mathematica can solve the integral, indicating the complexity of the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fourier series and coefficients
  • Familiarity with integration techniques in calculus
  • Knowledge of complex functions and their properties
  • Experience with mathematical software such as Maple or Mathematica
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore advanced integration techniques for complex functions
  • Research Bessel functions and their relation to Fourier series
  • Learn about the properties of odd functions in Fourier analysis
  • Investigate alternative mathematical software for symbolic integration
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, physics students, and engineers working on Fourier analysis, particularly those facing challenges with complex integrals and series expansions.

sigmund
Messages
23
Reaction score
0
I have tried to find the Fourier series for a function [itex]u(x)[/itex]:

[tex] u(x)=\sin((1+3\cos(t))t)[/tex]

The function is odd, hence the Fourier coefficients [itex]a_n[/itex] equal zero and the [itex]b_n[/itex]s are given as

[tex] b_n=\frac{4}{T}\int_0^{T/2}u(t)\sin(n\omega t)\,\text{d}t[/tex]

where [itex]T=2\pi[/itex] and [itex]\omega=2\pi/T=1[/itex].

Then, my problem is that u(x)*sin(n*t) is not easily integrated. I would then like to ask if there could be any way getting around this integration-problem, perhaps if I wrote u(x) as either the real og imaginary part of a complex function? I would appreciate any help.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Well, it is sort of close to a Bessel integral. But not really. It doesn't look promising at all. Neither Maple or Mathematica will do it, but that doesn't mean anything. I've had precisely one hour of sleep in the last day and a half, so I may be missing something~
 
Last edited:
So your function is

[tex]u(x)= \sin \left[\left(1+3\cos t\right)t\right][/tex]...Hmm.

U could you leave it like that,namely the coeff. "b_{n}",because you can't evaluate that integral.

Daniel.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
4K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
6K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K