Problems with Fourier transform

In summary, a necessary condition for a function f(x) to be Fourier transformed is that it is absolutely integrable. However, even if a function does not meet this condition, it can still be Fourier transformed, with the result being 1/w^2 with some coefficients. This can be achieved by adding an exponential attenuation factor and taking the limit to 0. In physics, this is a common practice. However, the inverse transform for 1/w^2 is not as straightforward, as there is a high order pole at the origin. It is possible to integrate around the pole or use the known forward transform to find the inverse transform. However, the Cauchy principal value may only be used for first order poles, so some
  • #1
jtceleron
16
0
A necessary condition that a function f(x) can be Fourier transformed is that f(x) is absolutely integrable. However, some function, such as |t|, still can be Fourier transformed and the result is 1/w^2, apart from some coefficients. This can be worked out, as we can add a exponential attenuation factor, and then send it to 0. In physics, we are always doing such things.

However, the inverse transform is not so apparent, the how to solve the inverse Fourier transform for 1/w^2? Indirectly, we have already know the result. but directly, how to solve this integral? Because we have a high order pole at the origin. It seems the divergence cannot be avoided.

I am confused with that.
 
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  • #2
Integrate around the pole - or exploit the fact you already know the forward transform.
 
  • #3
Simon Bridge said:
Integrate around the pole - or exploit the fact you already know the forward transform.

but I think the Cauchy principal value is available only when the pole is of first order.
 
  • #4
Some high order poles can be dealt with though.
If this one cannot be, then you still have the ability to use the fact that you know the reverse process.
 

1. What is the Fourier transform?

The Fourier transform is a mathematical operation that decomposes a function into its constituent frequencies. It is often used in signal processing, image analysis, and other fields to analyze the frequency content of a signal or image.

2. What are some common problems with Fourier transform?

Some common problems with Fourier transform include aliasing, boundary effects, and noise interference. Aliasing occurs when the sampling rate is too low, resulting in the loss of high-frequency information. Boundary effects occur when the signal is not periodic, causing distortions at the edges of the transformed signal. Noise interference can also distort the signal and affect the accuracy of the Fourier transform.

3. How can I avoid aliasing in Fourier transform?

To avoid aliasing in Fourier transform, the signal must be sampled at a rate that is at least twice the highest frequency present in the signal. This is known as the Nyquist sampling rate. If the sampling rate is too low, a low-pass filter can be applied to remove high-frequency components before sampling.

4. How do I deal with boundary effects in Fourier transform?

To deal with boundary effects in Fourier transform, the signal can be windowed before transformation. This involves multiplying the signal by a window function that tapers off at the edges, reducing the impact of boundary effects. Another approach is to use a zero-padding technique, where zeros are added to the signal before transformation to extend the signal's length and minimize the effects of boundary distortions.

5. Can Fourier transform be used on non-periodic signals?

Yes, Fourier transform can be used on non-periodic signals. However, the transformed signal may experience boundary effects, as mentioned before. To mitigate this, windowing or zero-padding techniques can be applied. Additionally, alternative transforms such as the Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) can be used for non-periodic signals.

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