Proof: Fourier Transform of f(x) = f(-x)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that performing a Fourier transform on a function f(x) twice results in f(-x). The key mathematical expression involved is the double integral, specifically \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} e^{i kx} dk \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} e^{ikx'} f(x')dx'. The outer integral simplifies to the Dirac delta function \delta (x+x'), leading to the conclusion that the inner integral evaluates to f(-x). The discussion emphasizes the importance of handling factors of 2π correctly during the evaluation.

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How can I prove that doing a Fourier transform on a function f(x) twice gives back f(-x)?

Thanks..
 
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I think you're asking about the double integral

[tex]\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} e^{i kx} dk \int_{-\infty}^{\infty}e^{ikx'} f(x')dx'[/tex]

If so, then the outer integral

[tex]\int_{-\infty}^{\infty}e^{i k (x+x')} dk = \delta (x+x')[/tex]

i.e. the Dirac delta function and you arrive at your result upon evaluating the inner integral. (That's ignoring factors of [itex]2\pi[/itex] which I am sure you can handle!)
 
Last edited:
I should hope so. Thanks!
 

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