Combining Fourier Series for Step Function: $\phi_{n} = \sin(nx)$

In summary, the Fourier series for the given step function can be found by integrating the function from 0 to \pi and using the formula c_n= \frac{2}{\pi}\int_{\frac{\pi}{2}}^\pi sin(nx)dx. This results in a series of \frac{4}{\pi} \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \sin nx for the interval 0 to \frac{1}{2}\pi and a series of \frac{-4}{\pi} \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{n} \left((-1)^n + \cos(\frac{n \pi}{2}) \right)
  • #1
stunner5000pt
1,461
2
Find the FOurier Series in terms of [itex] \phi_{n} = \sin(nx) [/itex] of the step function

f(x) = 0 for [itex] 0 \leq x \leq \frac{1}{2} \pi [/tex]
f(x) =1 for [itex] \frac{1}{2} \pi < x \leq \pi [/itex]

now i have no problem finding the series for each branch. But how would i combine them?

for the 0 to 1/2 pi
[tex] \frac{4}{\pi} \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \sin nx [/tex]
for the 1/2 pi to pi
[tex] \frac{-4}{\pi} \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{n} \left((-1)^n + \cos(\frac{n \pi}{2}) \right) [/tex]

please help me on combining the two!

Thank you for your help
 
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  • #2
Strictly speaking, you are not finding the Fourier series for two different functions, you are finding the cn in [itex]\Sum c_n sin(nx)[/itex] by integrating a single function.
And, I might point out, you have NOT found the Fourier series on x between 0 and [itex]\frac{\pi}{2}[/itex]. f(x)= 0 there so the Fourier series is just 0.
[tex]c_n= \frac{2}{\pi}\int_0^\pi f(x)sin(nx)dx= \frac{2}{/pi}\left(\int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}}0 sin(nx)dx+ \int_{\frac{\pi}{2}}^\pi 1 sin(nx)dx\right)[/tex]

That is just
[tex]c_n= \frac{2}{\pi}\int_{\frac{\pi}{2}}^\pi sin(nx)dx[/tex]
 

Related to Combining Fourier Series for Step Function: $\phi_{n} = \sin(nx)$

1. What is a Fourier series?

A Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function as a sum of sinusoidal functions. It is used to analyze and synthesize signals in many fields, including physics, engineering, and mathematics.

2. How do you combine Fourier series for a step function?

To combine Fourier series for a step function, we use the formula $\phi_{n} = \sin(nx)$, where $\phi_{n}$ represents the nth term in the series and n represents the frequency of the sinusoidal function. This formula allows us to express the step function as a sum of sine functions with different frequencies.

3. What is the significance of using $\sin(nx)$ in the Fourier series for a step function?

The use of $\sin(nx)$ in the Fourier series for a step function allows us to represent the step function as a combination of simple sinusoidal functions. This simplifies the analysis and manipulation of the step function, making it easier to work with in mathematical calculations.

4. Can the Fourier series for a step function be used to approximate other types of functions?

Yes, the Fourier series for a step function can be used to approximate other types of functions, as long as they are periodic. By adjusting the values of n and the amplitude of the sinusoidal functions, we can create a series that closely approximates the desired function.

5. Are there any limitations to using the Fourier series for a step function?

One limitation of using the Fourier series for a step function is that it can only be used to represent periodic functions. It also requires an infinite number of terms to accurately represent a step function, which can make the calculations complex. Additionally, the series may not converge for certain functions, leading to inaccuracies in the approximation.

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