Plotting a Guassian FWHM = 1 ns

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of software like MATLAB to create a Gaussian distribution, with a focus on selecting the correct value for sigma. The formula for FWHM is mentioned, and the speaker suggests moving sigma from the tail to the head in the equations. The final part of the conversation includes specific values for t and v.
  • #1
Tone L
73
7
Homework Statement
Graph a guassian pulse when the FWHM is approximately 1 ns
Relevant Equations
$$V(t) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2\pi}\sigma}e^{\frac{-t^2}{2\sigma^2}}$$
Simply plugging this into software like MATLAB will present a solid guassian distrubution. However, my doubt comes from selecting the correct sigma.

t = - 10 ns to + 10 ns
##\sigma## = 0.1 ns

This produces a plot like so,
1638757460650.png
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Am I right in thinking the graphed function has a FWHM of about 2.7 ns ?
 
  • #3
Baluncore said:
Am I right in thinking the graphed function has a FWHM of about 2.7 ns ?
Yes, I was just trying to supply an example guassian. The derived formula for FWHM is as follows, which you can solve for ##\sigma##.
$$FWHM = 2\sqrt{2ln(2)}\sigma$$
 
  • #4
Maybe you are including sigma in the square root of one or both equations.
Move sigma from the tail to the head.
FWHM = sigma * 2 * Sqr( 2 * Log( 2 ) )
V(t) = Exp( -0.5 * ( t / sigma)^2 ) / ( sigma * Sqr( 2 * Pi ) )
FWHM = 1 nsec
sigma = 4.2466e-10
t= -0.5 ns; v = 469718639.350
t = 0; max v = 939437278.700
t= +0.5 ns; v = 469718639.350
 
Last edited:

1. What is a Gaussian FWHM?

A Gaussian FWHM (Full Width at Half Maximum) is a measure of the width of a Gaussian curve at half of its maximum height. It is commonly used to describe the width of a peak in a spectrum or the width of a pulse in a time-domain signal.

2. How is a Gaussian FWHM calculated?

The FWHM of a Gaussian curve is calculated by finding the two points on the curve that are at half of the maximum height and measuring the distance between them. This distance is then multiplied by a factor of 2.35482 to convert it to the standard deviation of the Gaussian curve.

3. What does a FWHM of 1 ns represent?

A FWHM of 1 ns represents a very narrow peak or pulse with a width of 1 nanosecond. This is a common time scale used in scientific research, particularly in fields such as optics and electronics.

4. How is a Gaussian FWHM related to the standard deviation?

The FWHM of a Gaussian curve is directly related to its standard deviation. The standard deviation is equal to the FWHM divided by 2.35482, and the FWHM is equal to the standard deviation multiplied by 2.35482.

5. Why is a Gaussian FWHM important in scientific research?

The Gaussian FWHM is important because it provides a quantitative measure of the width of a peak or pulse in a signal. This information can be used to characterize and compare different signals, and can also provide insights into the underlying physical processes that produce the signals.

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